Tirumala Pancha Beralu | 5 Idols Details

In this comprehensive article, we delve deep into the mysteries and significance of these Pancha Beralu (5 Idol’s)

Unveiling the Mysteries of Tirumala’s Powerful Pancha Beralu (5 Idol’s)

Introduction

In the sanctum of Tirumala Temple, amidst the serene hills of Andhra Pradesh, lie Powerful Pancha Beralu ( 5 Idol’s) that have captured the hearts and souls of countless devotees. 

These divine entities, known as the “Pancha Beralu,” hold a special place in the Tirumala Temple . 

Shedding light on their history, rituals, and the profound connection they share with Lord Venkateshwara.

1_Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy : Kouthuka Beram

Also referred to as “Kouthuka Beram,” the idol of Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy rests at the feet of Lord Venkateshwara.

The Historical Revelation

In the year 966 A.D, the Sanctum of Tirumala was undergoing renovation, leaving devotees longing for a glimpse of their beloved Lord Venkateshwara.

It was during this time that a divine intervention occurred. In a dream, the Pallava Queen named “Perundevi” received a celestial message from Lord Venkateshwara himself.

He instructed her to place a silver idol in the sanctum, ensuring that devotees could continue their darshan.

Perundevi faithfully crafted a two-foot-high silver idol known as “Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy.”

This idol has since become an integral part of the temple’s daily rituals.

The Sacred Connection

A sacred thread is tied to Bhoga Srinivasa Murty, connecting him to the main deity in the sanctum called Mula Virat.

This thread is fastened around the feet of Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy, and the other end is placed near the Kathithasta of the Mula Virat.

This symbolic act establishes a special relationship between the primary deity and Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy to achieve two main objectives.

Essentially, worship and rituals performed for Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy are considered to be equivalent to those conducted for the main deity.

Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy receives daily Abhishekam, the ritual bathing of consecrated idols, and acts as the presiding deity during sevas like “Sahasra Kalashabhisheka” and “Pavalimpu seva.”

This idol’s presence is a testament to the belief that serving Bhoga Srinivasa is equivalent to serving Lord Venkateshwara himself.

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2_Koluvu Srinivasa Murthy : Bali Beram

Also referred to as “Bali Beram,” This idol, situated near the left hand of the main deity

He holds a special role as the guardian deity of the temple, overseeing its financial and economic matters.

Every morning, a ritual known as the Daily Koluvu Seva is performed for this deity.

During this ceremony, the temple presents a report of the previous day’s offerings, income, and expenses, essentially providing an account of the temple’s finances.

The Daily Rituals

Koluvu Srinivasa Murthy, also known as “Bali Beram,” stands to the left of the main deity.

Every day, after essential rituals like “Suprabhata Seva,” “Alankara Seva,” and “Thomala Seva,” this idol is seated on a throne outside the sanctum.

Here, the almanac of the day is read out, and the temple’s income and expenditure from the previous day are humbly presented to the Lord.

3_Ugra Srinivasa Murthy : Snapana Beram

Also referred to as “Snapana Beram,” This idol, situated on the left-hand side of the main deity

The Fiery Episode

However, its journey to this position was not normal

In 1330 A.D, a fire broke out in Tirumala during the Brahmotsavam when sunlight touched this idol.

This incident is documented in the temple’s inscriptions.

To prevent such mishaps, Ugra Srinivasa Murthy is only brought out of the sanctum twice a year – on Janmashtami and Ksheerabdi Dwadasi.

The Symbolic Ferocity

The term “Ugra” denotes ferocity, but it’s essential to understand that this doesn’t imply the idol’s appearance is fierce.

Instead, it represents a divine quality known as “Ugra Kala,” activated when exposed to sunlight.

This ferocity signifies the Lord’s wrath against evil and those who harm His devotees, showcasing His boundless mercy for His faithful followers.

4_Malayappa Swamy : Utsava Beram

Also referred to as “Utsava Beram,” These idols are placed on the right side of the Moola Virat in the Sanctum. 

The Serendipitous Discovery

In 1330 A.D, following the fire incident, Lord Venkateshwara guided his devotees to find a new idol for the Brahmotsavam.

The message was that the deity Ugra Srinivasa needed to be replaced by a new idol to be found in the “Malayappa Kona,” a forest area in the Tirumala hills.

The temple priests and staff went to the specified location and began digging as per the Lord’s guidance.

They unearthed a 3-foot-tall idol of Lord Venkateshwara, along with idols of his consorts, Sridevi and Bhoodevi.

After the idols were sanctified during “Samprokshana” and consecrated during “Prana Prathistha,” the Brahmotsavam festival resumed.

These idols have been part of the Brahmotsavam celebrations since 1330 AD and are known as “Malayappa Swamy” due to their discovery in “Malayappa Kona.” They are also referred to as “Utsava Beram.”

5_The Moola Virat : Dhruva Beram

Also referred to as “Dhruva Beram”

The Moola Virat, the main deity of Lord Venkateshwara, is renowned for its celestial magnetism

The Inexplicable Attraction

The Moola Virat, also called “Dhruva Beram,” stands as a magnetic center of attraction at Tirumala.

Its allure surpasses that of any other idol, drawing millions of devotees who wait for hours to catch a fleeting glimpse.

The idol’s unique charisma and unparalleled devotion it commands have left many wondering about its secret.

Conclusion

Tirumala’s sanctum houses not only the divine presence of Lord Venkateshwara but also these powerful Pancha Beralu – Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy, Koluvu Srinivasa Murthy, Ugra Srinivasa Murthy, Malayappa Swamy, and the Moola Virat.

Their histories, rituals, and significance intertwine to create a rich tapestry of devotion and spirituality.

As you watch the Brahmotsavams and sevas next time, may your heart be filled with the profound knowledge of these sacred Pancha Beralu, enhancing your spiritual journey.

In your quest for spiritual enlightenment, may these Pancha Beralu serve as guides, leading you closer to the divine.