Shankhanidhi and Padmanidhi are the divine guardians who protect the wealth and Nava Nidhis of Lord Sri Venkateswara.
🔹 Shankhanidhi stands on the southern side holding two conch shells.
🔹 Padmanidhi stands on the northern side holding two lotus flowers.
These rare Panchaloha idols, about 2 feet tall, are located on either side of the Mahadwaram (main entrance) of the Tirumala temple, near the place where devotees wash their feet before entering the shrine.
At their feet, devotees can also notice a small royal idol in a prayer posture, believed to represent Vijayanagara King Achyuta Deva Raya, who is thought to have installed these guardian deities.
According to Agama traditions, such Nidhi Deities are usually placed at the entrance of the third prakaram, indicating that the Tirumala temple originally had three prakarams.
🙏 If you have never noticed these sacred idols before, look for them during your next Tirumala visit and offer your prayers before entering the temple.
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