Sri Swamy Pushkarini – The Supreme Sacred Tank of Tirumala

Located near Adivaraha Swamy Temple in Tirumala, Sri Swamy Pushkarini holds immense spiritual significance. It is regarded as the supreme Koneru (sacred tank) among all the holy water bodies in the world.

According to Varaha Purana, three acts are highly difficult yet supremely rewarding:

1. Taking a dip in Swamy Pushkarini

2. Serving the lotus feet of a Sath Guru

3. Observing Ekadasi Vratam

When Lord Vishnu incarnated as Varahaswamy and arrived in Tirumala, he commanded Garuda to bring a divine water tank from Vaikuntam. Garuda fulfilled the task by transporting Kreedadri Sarovaram, establishing the Pushkarini at Tirumala. It is believed that a single dip in this holy water can wash away all sins—known or unknown—and bring spiritual purification and worldly happiness.

Historical Development

The Koneru spans 1.50 acres and was first enhanced in 1468 by Saluva Narasimha Rayalu, who constructed the Neeraali Mandapam at its midpoint.
During the 15th century, the Thallapaka family renovated the structure and added steps for easier access.
TTD (Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams) maintains the Pushkarini, ensuring water filtration, annual cleaning, and oxygenation for purity.

Sacred Events & Rituals

Mukkoti Theertham (Dwadasi after Vaikunta Ekadasi):

On this sacred day, waters from all holy rivers converge into Swamy Pushkarini, elevating its divine power. A dip on this day is believed to grant ultimate liberation.

Rathasapthami & Brahmotsavam:

On the last day of Brahmotsavam, Sri Sudarsana Chakra Alwar receives a ceremonial bath in the tank, during which devotees also take a holy dip.

Teppotsavam (Float Festival – Phalguna Month):

This grand five-day event concludes on Pournami (full moon), where deities including Seetha Rama Lakshmana, Sri Rukmini Sri Krishna, Sri Bhoodevi, and Sri Devi Sametha Venkateswara Swamy are floated gracefully over Pushkarini waters.

Legendary Connections

King Dasaratha of Ayodhya, longing for progeny, bathed in Swamy Pushkarini and prayed to Lord Srinivasa. His wish was fulfilled with the birth of Lord Rama, an avatar of Vishnu.
Kumara Swamy (Lord Murugan) bathed in the tank to cleanse himself of Brahma Hatya Patakam, after slaying the demon Tarakasura, who was born a Brahmin.
Saint Annamacharya glorified Sri Swamy Pushkarini in his compositions, calling it Loka Paavani, signifying its purifying and liberating essence. He likened the steps leading to the tank to the four Purusharthas—Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha.

This divine Pushkarini remains holier than all other sacred tanks, offering spiritual redemption and eternal blessings to those who bathe in it.