The Mystery of the Visa God
Have you ever heard of a temple where people worship a god for getting a visa to travel abroad? If not, then you are in for a surprise. In Hyderabad, India, there is a shrine dedicated to Lord Balaji, also known as the Visa God or Chilkur Balaji. This temple is one of the most unique and popular places in India, where thousands of devotees and aspirants visit every week to pray for getting a visa to study or work in foreign countries, especially the USA.
The Story of the Visa God and His Temple
The story of the Visa God and his temple dates back to the 17th century, when it was built by Akkanna and Madanna, the uncles of Bhakta Ramdas, a Carnatic music composer and an ardent devotee of Lord Rama. The temple is located on the banks of Osman Sagar lake, about 25 km from Hyderabad. The temple has a small and colorful gopuram (tower) and a golden flagstaff. The main deity is Lord Balaji, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped along with his consorts Sridevi and Bhoodevi.
The temple became famous as the Visa God in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when many young Indians wished for a visa to go abroad for higher education or better job opportunities. It is said that one of the priests of the temple had applied for a visa to visit his son in the USA, but was rejected. He then prayed to Lord Balaji and circled the temple 11 times, making a vow that he would do 108 rounds if his wish was fulfilled. To his surprise, he got his visa approved in his next attempt. He then completed his 108 rounds as promised. This incident spread among the people and soon many started following his example. They believed that Lord Balaji would grant their visa wishes if they did 11 rounds before applying for a visa and 108 rounds after getting it.
The Worship of the Visa God
Every day, hundreds of people throng the temple and pray to Lord Balaji for getting a visa. They buy cards with numbers from 1 to 108 marked on them and use pens to tick off each round they complete. They chant "Govinda Govinda" while circling the temple. They also offer flowers, incense sticks, coconut, red thread, sweets and sometimes liquor bottles to the deity. They do not close their eyes during darshan (seeing the deity) and concentrate on their wish.
The temple witnesses more rush on weekends and public holidays, when thousands of people visit it. The temple is open 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. There is no entry fee or dress code for visiting the temple. People from all faiths and backgrounds are welcome to visit the temple and seek Lord Balaji's blessings. The temple also has an online presence where people can book online darshan or make online donations.
The temple also has a social and environmental message for its visitors. It discourages them from using plastic bags or bottles and asks them to keep the premises clean and green. It also promotes organic farming and cow protection among the villagers nearby. It also advocates for equal rights and opportunities for women and dalits (lower castes) in society.
The Mystery of the Visa God
The mystery of the Visa God remains unsolved till date. No one knows how or why Lord Balaji grants visa wishes to his devotees. Some say it is a miracle, while others say it is a coincidence or a psychological effect. Whatever the case may be, the fact is that Lord Balaji and his temple have become a phenomenon in Hyderabad and beyond. They have inspired many people with their faith and hope. They have also shown that dreams can come true with hard work and divine grace.
If you ever visit Hyderabad, don't forget to stop by the Visa God's Temple and witness this amazing sight for yourself. You might just get a visa to your desired destination or hear Lord Balaji's voice in your heart. It is a place where you can experience something extraordinary and unforgettable. It is a place where you can connect with Lord Balaji and his devotees. It is a place where you can find peace and happiness, and enjoy the beauty and charm of Hyderabad.
How to Visit the Visa God’s Temple
If you are interested in visiting the Visa God’s Temple, here are some tips and information that might help you:
●The temple is located on the Chilkur Balaji Road, near Himayat Sagar, about 25 km from Hyderabad. You can reach it by car, bus or bike. The nearest railway station is Hyderabad Deccan, which is about 30 km away from the temple. The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, which is about 40 km away from the temple.
● The best time to visit the temple is early morning or evening, when the temple is less crowded and more peaceful. You can also visit the temple on Thursdays and Saturdays, which are considered auspicious days for Lord Balaji.
● You can also take a dip in the Osman Sagar lake near the temple, which is a scenic and serene spot. You can also enjoy boating or fishing in the lake. You can also visit the Mrugavani National Park, which is a wildlife sanctuary near the temple. You can spot various animals and birds in the park, such as deer, peacocks, monkeys and snakes.
● You can also explore the nearby attractions and places of interest, such as the Golconda Fort, the Charminar, the Salar Jung Museum or the Hussain Sagar Lake. You can also enjoy the local cuisine and culture of Hyderabad, which is famous for its biryani, haleem, kebabs and pearls.
● The Visa God’s Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves faith, mystery or miracles. It is a place where you can witness the power of prayer and the grace of Lord Balaji. It is a place where you can fulfill your visa dreams and travel goals. It is a place where you can discover the magic and mystery of Hyderabad.
So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to the Visa God’s Temple today and get ready for an amazing adventure!
Source:
(1) Devotees willing to go overseas visit 'visa god' temple in Hyderabad .... https://zeenews.india.com/news/andhra-pradesh/devotees-willing-to-go-overseas-visit-visa-god-temple-in-hyderabad_1598176.html.
(2) The 'Visa God' temple near Hyderabad where people come flocking to pray .... https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/visa-god-near-hyderabad-getting-busier-day.
(3) Temple Of The Visa God - Chilkur Balaji Temple - Inditales. https://www.inditales.com/visa-god-chilkur-balaji/.
(4) Praying to the visa gods: why Indians hoping to study or work abroad .... https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/lifestyle-culture/article/3096552/praying-visa-gods-why-indians-hoping-study-or-work.
0 Comments