Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams to announce revised plan on restricted darshan

TIRUPATI: In the backdrop of severe opposition from pilgrims over the decision to restrict darshan at the Venkateswara temple in Tirumala during Mahasamprokshanam, the TTD will announce its revised plan on Tuesday. The TTD had cancelled darshan at the temple from August 11 to 17 because there would not be enough time to accommodate the large number of pilgrims expected during the holidays, Following an outcry, the TTD had said it had just about 30 hours for darshan.

On Tuesday, the TTD will come out with its plan to provide darshan during the Mahasamprokshanam, after considering suggestions given by the pilgrims. The TTD had announced toll-free numbers and email addresses seeking suggestions. The TTD has several options to choose from several categories including special entry darshan, divya darshan, darshan for aged pilgrims, slotted sarva darshan. An official on condition of anonymity said, “We received over 1,100 suggestions in the form of calls and emails. We are working on segregating the suggestions.”

The TTD board meeting will be held in Annamiah Bhavan in Tirumala on Tuesday. Officials will discuss and finalise the suggestions received from pilgrims and factor in other considerations before making an announcement regarding darshan during the Mahasamprokshanam. It is expected that the TTD Board will be more circumspect in taking a decision on the darshan timings, following the uproar the first time round. The board had been trolled on social media for announcing closure of the temple.