Swamy Pushkarini – Sacred Lake of Tirumala & Origin of Thirthams

 

Sri Venkateswara Swamy & Adi Varaha Kshetram

• Universal Protector in Kaliyuga: Sri Venkateswara Swamy resides on Tirumala to safeguard devotees across the world.
• Puranic Origin: After vanquishing demons, Sri Maha Vishnu incarnated as Sweta Varaha (wild boar) and took abode on Venkatachala hills.
• Adi Varaha Kshetram: Since then, Tirumala is revered as Adi Varaha Kshetram. Devotees must first visit Sri Varaha Swamy Temple before darshan of Lord Venkateswara.

Swamy Pushkarini – The Sacred Lake

• Divine Abode: Sri Varaha Swamy, along with Sridevi and Bhudevi, resides on the west of Swamy Pushkarini, symbolizing prosperity and health.
• Self-Originated Lake: Known as Varaha Pushkarini, this freshwater lake is Swayam Vyakta (self-manifested).
• Scriptural Mentions: Its sanctity is highlighted in Varaha, Markandeya, Vamana, Skanda, Brahma, and Bhavishyottara Puranas.

Cosmic Significance

• Source of All Thirthams: Believed to be the origin of three crore sacred Thirthams.
• Garuda’s Offering: As per Varaha Swamy’s command, Garuda brought Pushkarini from Vaikuntha, the divine abode of Vishnu.
• Nine Sacred Thirthas within Pushkarini:
• Kubera Thirtham
• Galava Thirtham
• Markandeya Thirtham
• Agni Thirtham
• Yama Thirtham
• Vashistha Thirtham
• Varuna Thirtham
• Vayu Thirtham
• Saraswati Thirtham

Ritual Importance

• Salvation through Bathing: Scriptures affirm that bathing in Swamy Pushkarini Theertham grants moksha (salvation).
• Mandatory Pilgrim Ritual: Devotees traditionally purify themselves here before entering the sanctum of Lord Venkateswara.