SRI VENKATESWARA DHYANA JNANA MANDIRAM, TIRUMALA

The S.V. Museum, also known as Sri Venkateswara Dhyana Jnana Mandiram, is a treasure trove of heritage and history located in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh. Here are the key features and highlights of this fascinating museum:

1. Historical Background:
   • The Hall of Antiques, established in 1980 in Thousand Pillar Mandapam, later evolved into the expansive S.V. Museum.
   • Situated opposite Vaikuntham Queue Complex in Tirumala, the museum covers an area of 1.25 lakh sq.ft.
2. Collection Overview:
   • The museum houses more than 6000 items of historical interest, spanning from the very early period to the present.
   • Collections are categorized into ten sections, encompassing archaeology, contemporary items, and various aspects of Vaishnavism and Hindu culture.
3. Special Galleries:
   • The Vahanams gallery showcases an array of Srivari Vahanams used during Brahmotsavams.
   • Original copper plates of Annamayya’s compositions and the Varahaswamy Copper inscription are among the prized exhibits.
4. Dynastic Contributions:
   • All major dynasties of southern India, including Pallavas, Cholas, Pandyas, Vijayanagara Empire, and local chieftains, have contributed valuable offerings to the temple.
   • Sri Krishnadevaraya of Vijayanagara Empire personally visited Tirumala seven times, and his offerings, including the Dhupa-Ganta, are displayed.
5. Stone Sculptures:
   • The stone gallery features over 80 sculptures dating from the 8th to the 19th century, depicting the history of Vaishnavism in the region.
6. Musical Instruments and Armory:
   • The museum displays a variety of ancient musical instruments and weaponry, providing insights into the bygone ages.
7. Alwars and Bronze Section:
   • The front porch features stone images of Alwars, highlighting their significance in the emergence of Vaishnavism in the south.
   • The bronze section contains idols, nutcrackers, utensils, and more from centuries ago.
8. Library and Auditorium:
   • The museum houses a library with books in multiple languages on religion, history, heritage, temple arts, and architecture.
   • Harini, the auditorium in the museum, screens programs, documentaries, and films on Tirumala and heritage daily from 10 am to 6 pm.
9. Inscriptions and Bell Gallery:
   • Over a thousand inscriptions on the walls depict the history of the temple for 1500 years.
   • The museum displays big iron bells, a gigantic pulley used in temple construction, and cauldrons.
10. Meditation Halls and Serene Atmosphere:
    • Pilgrims can relax in the meditation halls on the roof, experiencing tranquility in the lap of the lord.
11. Library and Auditorium:
    • The museum includes a library with books in Telugu, English, Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi, catering to pilgrims and research scholars.
12. Harini Auditorium:
    • Harini, the auditorium in the museum, screens interesting programs and documentaries on Tirumala and heritage daily from 10 am to 6 pm.
13. Visiting Details:
    • The museum is open EVERY DAY from 8 am to 8 pm.
    • Entry is free, and it operates seven days a week.

Visiting the S.V. Museum offers a rich and enlightening experience, providing pilgrims and enthusiasts with a deep dive into the heritage, traditions, and cultural richness associated with the sacred Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala.

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