h1b visa: As US President Donald Trump announces major changes to the H1B visa programme, India could be the most affected among all countries. The Trump administration has introduced a USD 100,000 annual application fee for H1B visas. Significantly, this new fee is nearly equal to a full year’s salary for the average H1B employee. Amid the ongoing confusion and discussions about the impact of Trump’s move on India, a temple in Hyderabad has come into focus—closely associated with the word ‘Visa’. Why is this temple attracting attention, and how is it connected to the new visa rules? Here is the story.
Chilkur Balaji Temple or Visa Temple
h1b visa: Chilkur Balaji Temple is an ancient Hindu temple of Lord Balaji on the banks of Osman Sagar in Rangareddy District in Telangana. The temple is dedicated to Lord Balaji (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu) and is known as the “Visa Temple” because devotees believe that prayers offered here can help them obtain a visa or passport, making it a destination for hopeful travellers.
Why is Chilkur Balaji Temple called the Visa Temple?
h1b visa: Chilkur Balaji Temple earned the nickname “Visa Temple” in the 1980s. Devotees, especially students and professionals, used to visit the Chilkur Balaji temple to pray for successful visa approvals. It is believed that people used to get a Visa after offering prayer in the Chilkur Temple. The temple draws thousands of students and professionals each week, blending age-old tradition with modern dreams of going abroad.
Where is Chilkur Balaji Temple located?
The temple is located in Chilkur village, near Osman Sagar Lake, about an hour’s drive from Hyderabad in Telangana.
Which deity is worshiped at the Visa Temple?
The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara (Lord Balaji), along with his consorts Sridevi and Bhoodevi.
How do devotees pray for visas at the temple?
Devotees perform 11 pradakshinas (circumambulations) around the sanctum while silently praying for their visa. After the visa is approved, they return to perform 108 rounds to show gratitude.
