- By Kashish Rai
- Thu, 09 Jan 2025 01:37 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam: The Tirupati Balaji Temple is renowned for its rich history and spiritual significance. One intriguing aspect of this majestic temple is the age-old tradition of hair donation. Devotees from far and wide flock to the temple to shave their heads and offer their hair to the deity. But what drives this unique practice? By exploring the roots of this custom, we can gain a deeper understanding of the temple's spiritual essence. It's a fascinating story that reveals the devotion, faith and spiritual aspirations of the temple's devotees. Let's delve into the significance of hair donation at the Tirupati Balaji Temple.
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam: Why Do People Donate Hair At Tirupati Balaji Temple?
The Tirupati Balaji Temple has a unique tradition where devotees donate their hair as an offering to Lord Venkateshwara. According to legend, Lord Venkateshwara had taken a loan from Lord Kuber, and to repay it, devotees donate their hair. In return, it's believed that Lord Venkateshwara blesses the devotees with 10 times more wealth than the value of their donated hair.
Another popular legend surrounding hair donation at the temple dates back to ancient times. A cow would visit the temple and offer milk to a mountain of ants that had formed on the deity of Lord Balaji. When the cow's owner discovered this, he struck the cow's head with an axe, wounding Lord Balaji and causing some of his hair to fall out. Goddess Neela Devi came to the rescue, cutting her own hair to cover Lord Balaji's wound. This selfless act pleased Lord Narayan, who declared that hair is a vital part of one's beauty and that donating it would lead to the fulfilment of one's wishes.
Today, devotees, including women, donate their hair at the Tirupati Balaji Temple as a symbol of their devotion and to seek the blessings of Lord Venkateshwara and Goddess Lakshmi. The temple's barbers shave the devotees' heads, and the donated hair is then sold to support the temple's charitable activities. This unique tradition has become an integral part of the temple's culture and a testament to the devotees' unwavering faith.
Hair donation at Tirupati Balaji Temple signifies devotion, faith and spiritual growth, demonstrating surrender to the divine and seeking blessings for a prosperous life. (Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam: Religious Significance Of Donating Hair
Donating hair at the Tirupati Balaji Temple holds immense religious significance. As we have mentioned before, Hindu legends enumerate that Lord Venkateshwara had taken a loan from Lord Kuber to marry Goddess Padmavati. To repay this loan, devotees donate their hair which is believed to help Lord Venkateshwara clear his debt.
Therefore, the selfless act of donating hair at Tirupati Balaji temple is considered a symbol of devotion and surrender to the divine. Additionally, it is also believed to bring spiritual benefits to the devotee. It's said to cleanse the mind and body of negative energies, promoting spiritual growth and self-realisation. By renouncing their hair, devotees demonstrate their willingness to let go of worldly attachments and ego, seeking a deeper connection with the divine. This sacred ritual has been an integral part of the Tirupati Balaji Temple's traditions for centuries.
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(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)