Yes, according to deeply held traditions and legends associated with Lord Venkateswara at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, the hair on Tirupati Balaji's idol is indeed considered to be real. This belief forms the cornerstone of one of the most significant devotional practices among pilgrims.
The Sacred Origin: The Legend of Neela Devi
The tradition regarding the authenticity of Lord Balaji's hair is rooted in an ancient and cherished legend that explains its divine presence and the subsequent practice of devotees offering their own hair.
- An Act of Devotion: The legend recounts an incident where Lord Balaji sustained an injury to his head. Witnessing this, a devout Gandharva princess named Neela Devi, renowned for her beautiful, silky hair, immediately offered a portion of her own locks. She selflessly cut her hair and presented it to the Lord, requesting him to place it on his head to heal the injury.
- Divine Acceptance and Blessing: Lord Balaji graciously accepted Neela Devi's sincere and selfless offering. In return for her profound devotion and sacrifice, he made a sacred pronouncement. He declared that any devotee who visits his holy shrine and offers their hair as a humble offering will be blessed. This divine decree laid the foundation for the enduring practice of tonsuring, or head-shaving, at Tirumala, which has since become a deeply significant ritual for millions of pilgrims worldwide.
The Significance of Hair Offering by Devotees
The act of offering hair at Tirumala is far more than a mere ritual; it is a profound expression of faith, gratitude, and surrender for millions of devotees.
- Fulfillment of Vows (Mokku): Many pilgrims undertake vows (mokku) to Lord Balaji, promising to offer their hair if their prayers are answered or their desires fulfilled. This act becomes a tangible way of expressing thanks.
- Symbol of Sacrifice: Offering one's hair is seen as a sacrifice of personal vanity and a detachment from worldly attachments, symbolizing complete surrender to the divine.
- Seeking Blessings: Devotees believe that by offering their hair, they are seeking divine blessings, expressing humility, and fostering a deeper spiritual connection with Lord Venkateswara.
This profound belief in the reality of the divine hair, combined with the timeless legend of Neela Devi, underscores the spiritual importance of the hair-offering tradition at Tirumala, making it a unique and globally recognized spiritual phenomenon.
