shadenights

Title-This is a modern temple (consecrated in 1976) built of white marble on top of a hill, dominating the skyline of Hyderabad. The Birlas (industrialists who have also built several temples in India in this century) built this temple. The presiding deity here is Venkateswara (Vishnu).

Facts At A Glance Built In-The famous Birla temple patronized by Mahatma Gandhi, who inaugurated this temple in 1938 after Raja Baldev Birla constructed it.

Description-Built over a span of ten years, by a Birla Foundation, the Birla Mandir is a beautiful modern temple overlooking the south end of Hussain Sagar, providing an excellent view over the city from the summit. One gets to view the intricate carvings of the temple, the ceiling and the mythological figures, which are a standing testimony to the dexterity and sculptural excellence of the craftsmen. This magnificent structure is a blend Of Orissan & South Indian Temple Art where a Rajagopuram built in the South Indian style greets the visitors. The tower over the main shrine of Lord Venkateswara called the "Jagadananda Vimanam" is built in the Orissan style, while the towers over the shrines of the consorts are built in the South Indian style. The consorts of Venkateswara, 'Padmavati' and 'Andal' are housed in separate shrines. Beautiful scenes from the great epics of Ramayana and Mahabharatha are finely sculpted in marble. A number of lofty steps lead the visitor to the sanctum sanctorum. Along the winding path are many marble statues of Gods and Goddesses of Hindu mythology located in the midst of some gardens, full of blossoms. The granite image of the presiding deity is about 11 ft. tall and a carved lotus forms an umbrella for this image. The brass flagstaff rises to a height of 42 ft.

Visiting Hours-Weekdays: 0700-1200 & 1400-2100 Saturdays: 0700-1200 &400-2100 Closed On: No Day

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