TIRUMALA VENKATESWAR TEMPLE
If we observe the traditions of Indian culture and pilgrimage, one truth becomes clear—here, faith holds greater importance than logic. The moment one steps onto the sacred seven hills of Tirumala, the air vibrates with the chant of “Govinda… Govinda…,” and the sight of countless devotees fills the heart with devotion and awe.
Amid this vast sea of pilgrims, one thing especially captures attention—from children to the elderly, even many South Indian women, all with shaved heads. Just as significant as having darshan of Lord Venkateswara is the sacred act of offering one’s hair.
But have you ever wondered why hair is offered there? What is the real reason behind this tradition?
The Legend Behind Kubera’s Loan
The origin of this tradition is rooted in a fascinating mythological story connected to Lord Vishnu’s incarnation as Srinivasa (Venkatesha) and His marriage to Goddess Padmavati.
According to ancient beliefs, when Lord Srinivasa decided to marry Goddess Padmavati, the wedding had to be grand—befitting the preserver of the universe. However, having incarnated on Earth in human form, the Lord did not possess the wealth required for such a magnificent ceremony.
Eventually, to conduct the grand wedding, Lord Srinivasa borrowed wealth from Kubera, the God of riches. Kubera granted the loan on one condition—that it must be repaid with interest, and until the entire debt is cleared, Lord Venkatesha would remain on Earth until the end of Kali Yuga. It is believed that even today, the Lord continues to repay this debt.
When devotees offer money, gold, or valuables into the temple’s hundi (donation box), it is considered a symbolic contribution toward repaying that divine loan.
But how does hair offering connect to this?
The Emotional Tale of Neela Devi
There is another deeply touching legend associated with this practice.
Once, it is said that Lord Vishnu sustained an injury on His head, causing a small portion of His hair to fall off. Witnessing this, Neela Devi, a celestial maiden (Gandharva princess), without hesitation cut off a lock of her own beautiful hair and offered it to cover the Lord’s bald patch.
Moved by her devotion and sacrifice, the Lord granted her a boon:
“Hair is a symbol of human beauty. Whoever sacrifices this symbol of beauty—and along with it, their ego—for My sake, their offering shall be most dear to Me. I shall surely fulfill their sincere wishes.”
Since then, devotees believe that by offering their hair, they surrender not only a part of their physical beauty but also their pride and ego at the feet of the Lord. It is not merely a ritual transaction, but an expression of faith, humility, and complete surrender.
The Deeper Spiritual Meaning
Hair is often regarded as a symbol of beauty and ego. When a devotee undergoes tonsure at the temple complex, they are symbolically letting go of their “I-ness” and pride before the Divine. After tonsure, whether rich or poor, all appear the same—equal before God. This is true surrender.
Many local women, for whom hair is considered a precious adornment, willingly offer their entire hair with joy and devotion. Sometimes, even visitors, overwhelmed by emotion or in fulfillment of a vow, choose complete tonsure. The sense of inner peace experienced afterward is often beyond words.
Should One Offer Hair?
The decision to offer hair is entirely personal—dependent on one’s faith and circumstances. While complete tonsure may not always be practical, many devotees today offer a symbolic lock of hair instead, honouring the tradition while considering personal reasons.
Ultimately, for Lord Venkateswara, the quantity of hair matters less than the sincerity of devotion. Whether one offers all their hair or just a small portion, what truly reaches the Lord is the spirit of gratitude and surrender.
This sacred tradition teaches us a profound lesson: whatever we receive from the Divine, we must offer back with humility, sacrifice, and thankfulness.
॥ Om Namo Venkateshaya ॥
