TTD Takes Key Decision Prioritizing Common Devotees

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has taken a significant decision aimed at giving greater priority to common devotees visiting the Tirumala temple for darshan. In view of the increasing influx of devotees, particularly during the summer vacation period, TTD has introduced changes to the VIP break darshan schedule. This new policy will be implemented on a trial basis starting from May 1.

The decision was made during a recent TTD governing board meeting chaired by B.R. Naidu, Chairman of TTD. According to the new schedule, VIP break darshan will commence at 6:00 a.m. from May 1. By advancing the current timing, TTD believes that more time slots will be available for common devotees later in the day.

Additionally, further changes have been introduced to the VIP break darshan arrangements during the summer holiday period, which spans from May 1 to July 15. During this specific timeframe, only VIPs falling under the official protocol category and who personally visit Tirumala will be granted break darshan. TTD has made it clear that individuals seeking darshan through recommendation letters will not be allowed access to break darshan during this period.

TTD sources stated that this decision was primarily aimed at minimizing inconvenience for common devotees during the peak summer season, when there is typically a sharp increase in pilgrim turnout, and to ensure they receive more time for darshan.

These changes are being introduced experimentally at first, and subsequent decisions will be based on devotees’ responses and assessments of ground-level conditions. Several individuals have welcomed these measures undertaken by TTD in the interest of common devotees.