On the outskirts of Hyderabad in Telangana, beside the Osman Sagar lake, stands the Chilkur Balaji temple, a beloved shrine of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji), affectionately known as the Visa Balaji for the countless devotees who pray here for success in their hopes to travel and work abroad. Ancient in origin, the temple is famed for a tradition unlike any other: it accepts no money offerings and keeps no hundi, holding worship free of all commerce.
Devotees make their vow by circling the sanctum eleven times, and, when their wish is fulfilled, return to complete one hundred and eight pradakshinas in gratitude. A place of simple, sincere faith, Chilkur Balaji is among the most cherished temples of the Hyderabad region.
