On the third day of the Srivari Brahmotsavam, Lord
Venkateswara will give darshan outside his temple to lakhs devotees who come
from all over the world on his vehicle of Simha (Lion).
The incarnation
of Lord Vishnu as the Mrugendrudu
(most ferocious and strong among the
animals-Lion) is an indication of Lord Venkateswara as a powerful entity born
to punish the erring anti-social elements on the universe and devoted for
protection of the righteous, poor and the weaker sections in the society. Being
a Simha, is the fourth avatar of Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as ‘Narasimha’
whom the puranas and legends speak in
volumes for his drive against ‘Dushta’(wrong doors) and protection of the weak, poor and
the god fearing persons.
In the Yoga shastra – a Lion was seen as an embodiment
of power and speed. The valor of Lord Venkateswara who had made such an animal
as his vehicle is thus displayed in abundance. The statues of Lions in the
Ananda Nilayam in the Srivari temple complex have displayed the affection of
Lord Venkateswara for Lions.
The idols of Narasimha in Yoga mudra in the temple and
also the idol of Lakshmi Narasimha on the way to Tirumala exhibit the
significance of Lion (Simha) in the celestial entourage of Lord Venkateswara.