SriTirupati ji: Lord Of Fortune
Lord Vankateshwar is one of the known figures of India. His devotees also know him
as Lord Balaji. Hindus around the world pay a visit to his shrine.
Lord Vankateshwar lives there with his spouse, Goddess Padmavati (Mahalaxmi).
They
believe that his mere glance can change their bad phase into good. Lord Tirupati resides in Sapthagiri hills in Andhrapradesh (India)
Lord Balaji has been praised in
ancient sacred texts of Hindus.
This shrine has been supported by many dynasties of past such as pandya, Cholas, pallavs and Vijay nagar dynasties.
This ancient shrine is one of the most visited shrines of the world.
It is also believed to be one of the richest religious places in the world.
However, it is managed by a trust, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam set up by the government of Andhra pradesh, India.(www.tirumala.org)
It runs many social service activities such as hospitals and religious institutions.
It also runs a grand library that stores ancient manuscripts and books.
Free accommodation is provided to pilgrims who cannot pay for lodging.
Free food is provided to pilgrims who cannot pay.
His devotees revere Lord Vankateshwar so much that one read expensive ornaments; affluent classes offer huge amounts to him. One interesting fact they explain is that Lord Balaji has taken huge loan from Divine custodian of wealth, SriKuber for his marriage so they are trying to remove this burden
This does not mean that poor cannot offer him anything. He is ever pleased with their devotion and sincere love.
Many believe when we pray to him, he is bound to take care of us.
Hindus believe that he always attends sincere prayers and in few moments, their miseries could be eased out.
Cynics or agnostics may dispute it but they too cannot deny immense popularity and financial power wielded by this Lord Of Fortune!
(Ashish Dimri, a feature writer wrote this article. Hope Lord will forgive this devotee for any flaw)