Birla Mandir (Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh)

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Birla Mandir is a magnificient temple with great architectural significance was built by the Birla Foundation in Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara.

The granite image of the presiding deity is about 11 ft. tall and a carved lotus forms an umbrella on the roof. The consorts of Venkateswara, 'Padmavati' and 'Andal' are housed in separate shrines. The brass flagstaff rises to a height of 42 ft.

The temple manifests a blend of South Indian, Rajasthani and Utkal temple architectures. It is entirely made of 2000 tons of Rajasthan pure white marble. It is built on a 280-feet high hillock called the Kala Pahad in a 13 acres plot. It is built for a period of 10 years and consecrated in 1976.

This magnificent structure is a blend of Orissan and South Indian Temple Art. The Rajagopuram and Garudalaya are built in the South Indian style. 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 Temple complex overlooking the southern side of Hussain Sagar, offers a fantastic panoramic view of the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. It presents a colorful spectacular sight when illuminated at night.

[edit] References

http://www.tourtravelworld.com/hot_spots/hyderabad/birla_mandir/