There are many stories (Mythology) abt Tirumala's God, Lord Venkateshwara. There are many names of this God too :) You will have a favorite one, based on where you come from, what language you use, and your age (just for sake of clarity).
The effort it takes to 'see' this God, is unbelievable. Because you have to only experience it, to know it. At the end of it, it really doesn't feel any different (Sorry Govinda!) BTW, Govinda is also a word that can be used as many 'parts of speech', to show varied emotions. Think about it.
The log queues, the engineering that goes into the design of the queues, the volunteers who manage the operations, the sheer number and type of people who turn up to see this God, the money that is made over there, is something you cant measure(People still try to maintain accounts over there!) and "alllllll THAT for what?" is how i felt this time... sure, its a good domain to have a business in India... you look around and you see all kinds of people making profit by any means. Including the God (in the name of 'The God'). Since the lord is known to demand more from 'pilgrims', people use that for their advantage. And the Lord is 'lenient' towards people who indulge in such activities. Well, a flexible God, i must say!
The prasada has to be mentioned. Pure ecstacy. People can go to extremes for this prasada.
Unfortunately, it still feels different when you are there(one way or the other). So, there were specific plans made for next visit. :D
Leave at 1 AM, after taking bath. Reach by 5:30, finish darshana, and drive back home.
:O
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