Tirumala: For the first time in TTD’s history, the temple administration braved pressure from various quarters to cut short the VIP “wishlist” on the auspicious occasion of Vaikunta Ekadasi, which coincided with the New Year on Thursday.
The temple administration won accolades from the general public, who, for the first time, were allowed “Vaikunta Ekadasi” darshan as early as on 3 am.
Standing firm on the decision to ensure hassle-free darshan for devotees, TTD executive officer Dr D. Sambasiva Rao ensured the number of VIP passes issued on the eve of Vaikunta Ekadasi was well within the permissible limits and didn’t hamper darshan for the common man.
According to TTD sources, only around 2,400 VIP passes under various categories were issued. This was negligible when compared to 2013.
Although the TTD had announced that VIPs would be allowed darshan from 1.30 am to 5 am on January 1, the temple administration completed the “Ekantaseva” at 10.30 pm and closed the temple.
TTD allowed the VIPs for darshan between 12.30 am and 3 am, thereby gaining an hour’s time for the common devotees who were inside the temple sharp by 3 am on Thursday morning.
Conveying his New Year greetings to the devotees of Lord Venkateswara across the globe, Mr Rao complimented the TTD staff of various wings for their efforts which ensured smooth pilgrimage for devotees on eve of Vaikunta Ekadasi.
