The Chilkur Balaji Temple, also referred to as the Visa Balaji Temple, is a sacred Hindu place of worship located in the charming Chilkur Village on the outskirts of Hyderabad, Telangana. This temple is devoted to Lord Balaji Venkateswara and is famously associated with the popular belief that it helps devotees secure their visas, especially for travel to the United States This article explores the intriguing features of this temple, such as its unique importance, admission fee, operating hours, whereabouts, and contact information.
The Chilkur Balaji Temple is renowned not just for its religious importance, but also for its distinctive connection to visa approvals. People visit this temple in large numbers to seek divine help for their visa-related concerns. The temple is famous for its peaceful atmosphere, allowing devotees to engage in rituals and prayers without any disturbances. Its calm surroundings and the uplifting vibes it radiates establish it as a sanctuary for spiritual seekers.
Chilkur Balaji Temple History
The temple in Telangana is considered one of the oldest in the region. It was constructed during the time of Akkanna and Madanna, who were the uncles of Bhakta Ramdas. According to a popular belief, there was a devotee who used to visit Tirupati every year but couldn’t do so due to a severe illness. In a dream, Lord Venkateshwara appeared to the devotee and assured him that he was present in a nearby jungle, alleviating his worries. Following the Lord’s instructions, the devotee went to the indicated location and discovered a mole-hill. While digging it up, the axe accidentally struck the idol of Lord Balaji, which was hidden beneath the mole-hill. To the devotee’s astonishment, blood started flowing from the “wounds,” turning the ground scarlet. Overwhelmed by this sight, the devotee then heard a voice from the air instructing him to flood the mole-hill with cow’s milk. Following the divine command, the devotee did as instructed and uncovered a self-manifested idol of Lord Balaji, accompanied by Sridevi and Bhoodevi. This unique combination of deities was then installed in a temple with proper rituals.
Sri Balaji Venkateshwara, the divine deity of Kaliyuga, is now present at Chilkur Temple to bestow blessings upon devotees who are unable to visit Tirupati for any reason. Throughout the year, numerous devout worshippers gather at the temple to seek the blessings of the Lord and his consorts, especially during the Poolangi, Annakota, and Brahmothsavams festivals.
Currently, C.S. Rangarajan serves as the head priest of the Chilkur Balaji Devasthanam. What sets this temple apart is its refusal to accept any monetary offerings from devotees and its lack of a hundi. Additionally, unlike many other temples in India, it does not provide any special privileges or a green channel for VIPs. The Jalaram temple in Virpur, Gujarat, and “Ramanuj Kot,” a temple in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, are the only other temples in India that share this distinction. Notably, the Chilkur Balaji Temple successfully fought for and secured the right to remain independent from government control.
Also Read: Exploring Birla Mandir Hyderabad: A Spiritual Haven
Chilkur Balaji Temple Entry Fee
One of the remarkable aspects of the Chilkur Balaji Temple is that it does not charge any entry fee. The temple management believes in keeping the sanctum accessible to everyone, irrespective of their financial background. This open approach attracts a diverse range of devotees who come here to seek blessings and experience the temple’s spiritual ambiance.
Chilkur Balaji Temple Timings
The temple is open to devotees throughout the week. The Chilkur Balaji Temple timings are as follows:
- Morning: 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM
These extended hours ensure that visitors can plan their visit conveniently. The temple remains busy, especially during weekends and festive seasons, so it is advisable to visit during early morning hours for a peaceful experience.
Is 108 Pradakshinas allowed at Chilkur temple?
On weekdays, specifically Monday through Thursday, visitors are permitted to complete 108 rounds at the chilkur Balaji temple. Nevertheless, due to high demand, there are occasions when the priests may announce a reduced number of 11 parikrama. Therefore, if you intend to perform the full 108 rounds, it is advisable to arrive at the temple early in the morning, around 4-5 am.
How to Reach Chilkur Balaji Temple
By Air
Hyderabad Airport is the nearest airport and is located at about 20 km away Chilkur. Various buses, taxies and cabs are available from parts of Hyderabad to Chilkur balaji Temple as well.
By Train
Budvel Railway Station is the nearest from Chilkur Balaji Temple.
By Road
Chilkur is around 32 km from Hyderabad and it is easily accessible by road. By Bus-Rtc buses available from Hyderabad to Mehdipatnam and then have to take other buses from Mehdipatnam to reach Chilkur Balaji temple. Bus No. 288D is the most frequent bus which runs in this route.
Chilkur Balaji Temple Location
The Chilkur Balaji Temple location is serene and scenic, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Situated about 30 kilometers from Hyderabad, the temple is easily accessible by road. The picturesque drive to Chilkur Village adds to the overall spiritual journey, making it a memorable trip for devotees and tourists alike.
Conclusion
The Chilkur Balaji Temple, or Visa Balaji Temple, is a unique and revered place of worship that attracts devotees from all over the world. Its special significance in visa approvals, along with its serene location, makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking spiritual solace or divine intervention for their travel plans. With no entry fee and convenient timings, the temple remains accessible to all who wish to seek blessings from Lord Balaji.
Whether you are a devout follower or a curious traveler, the Chilkur Balaji Temple offers an enriching and fulfilling spiritual experience. Plan your visit to this sacred shrine and immerse yourself in its divine aura.
