The world-renowned Tirupati Balaji temple is known for its unique customs, one of the most prominent being the offering of hair. Many devotees come to the temple to shave their heads and donate their hair, a practice deeply rooted in religious beliefs. But why do people donate their hair, and what happens to it afterward? Let’s explore these questions.
The Controversy Around Tirupati Laddu
Recently, the Tirupati temple was embroiled in controversy regarding the famous Tirupati Laddu. Allegations surfaced claiming that animal fat was being used in place of ghee in the laddus, a matter that garnered significant attention.
The Location and Rich Legacy of Tirupati Temple
The Tirupati Balaji temple is one of India’s most revered temples, located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, on the Tirumala hills near Tirupati. Devotees worship Lord Vishnu in his form as Sri Venkateswara here. Due to the immense amount of donations offered by devotees, it is also considered one of the wealthiest temples in the world.
Why Do Devotees Donate Hair at Tirupati?
The custom of hair donation is one of the most prominent rituals at the temple. It is believed that hair is precious to an individual, and by offering it to Lord Balaji, devotees are blessed with prosperity. There is also a belief that offering hair to the deity helps rid one’s life of sorrows and negative influences.
What Happens to the Donated Hair?
According to a report by India Today, in 2018, the Tirupati Balaji temple earned ₹6.39 crore from the auction of donated hair in a single month. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) trust organizes these auctions on the first Thursday of every year.
The Process of Preparing Donated Hair
Each year, devotees from various parts of the world donate approximately 500-600 tons of hair at the temple. After donation, the hair is processed by first boiling and washing it. Once cleaned and dried, the hair is sent to large storage facilities for safekeeping.
Sorting and Auctioning of Hair
Before the auction, the hair is categorized based on quality and length. It is divided into five categories, ranging from 5 inches to 31 inches. These auctions generate substantial revenue for the temple, supporting its operations and charitable activities.
