AP Govt Moves To Revive Century-Old Sri Vyasashram
Administrative reforms planned to restore Ashram's spiritual and charitable activities
Tirupati: The Andhra Pradesh government has initiated measures to revive the century-old Sri Vyasashram at Yerpedu through administrative reforms and the restoration of its educational, spiritual and charitable activities. The move follows the intervention of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu amid growing concerns over the institution's prolonged decline.
As part of the initiative, Tirupati district collector Dr S. Venkateswar, superintendent of police L. Subba Rayudu and Srikalahasti MLA Bojjala Sudheer Reddy met seers, former students, devotees and other stakeholders to discuss strengthening the Ashram's administration and safeguarding its properties and traditions.
The collector clarified that the government had no plans to take over the Ashram. Instead, it intends to facilitate the revival of its activities while allowing it to function independently within the existing legal framework. He said suggestions from spiritual leaders, alumni and devotees would help evolve a consensus on its future administration.
Discussions also focused on constituting a representative governing body to oversee the Ashram's affairs. Stakeholders were invited to submit proposals on the structure of a new trust or committee, including whether it should comprise 11 or 21 members. The Collector stressed the need for transparent management of the institution's assets, donations and inherited properties.
Founded by Sadguru Maharshi Sri Malayala Swamy after his penance at Tirumala Gokarna, Sri Vyasashram gained recognition for its Veda Pathashala, free eye hospital, orphanage and educational services for poor children. Many of these activities, however, gradually ceased over the years, drawing criticism from devotees and former students.
The Sri Vyasashram Protection Committee has alleged that the institution's charitable activities declined after the present Peethadhipathi assumed charge and has sought the restoration of its traditional systems and service programmes. The issue forms part of a long-running dispute over the Ashram's administration.
