TTD Today: Upgrading Service, Infrastructure & Spiritual Outreach

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) continues its dynamic trajectory in June 2025, blending enhanced services, devotional events, infrastructure projects, and spiritual outreach. From pilgrim facilities to airport renaming proposals, here's a comprehensive glance at the “TTD Today.”

Pilgrim Services - Faster, Smoother, Better

Alipiri Checkpoint and Toll Plaza Upgrades

TTD Executive Officer, J. Syamala Rao, confirmed a review meeting was convened to modernize the Alipiri Toll Plaza and checkpoint using advanced technology. This aims to improve crowd flow, enhance security, and ensure devotees no longer face delays during temple darshan.

Vada Prasadam Now Served Daily

Earlier this year, TTD introduced the “Vada Prasadam” initiative: 35,000 hot vadas are served daily at the Anna Prasadam Bhavan, with plans to scale further. This initiative complements the longstanding tradition of Annaprasadam, ensuring pilgrims receive timely nourishment.

Proactive Feedback Collection

The TTD EO stated the trust now collects systematic, department-wise feedback from pilgrims to continuously enhance lodging and service quality. The result? Reduced anxiety over accommodation availability.

Infrastructure & Branding Initiatives

TTD is steering several strategic changes aimed at improving visibility, connectivity, and heritage preservation:

• Renaming Renigunta Airport: The board has formally proposed renaming Renigunta Airport to “Sri Venkateswara International Airport” (or simply “Sri Venkateswara Airport”), reflecting the spiritual significance and regional branding. A formal proposal is being sent to the Civil Aviation Ministry.

• Electric Pilgrim Buses & Bengaluru Temple: Expansion includes eco-friendly electric buses and plans for a new temple in Bengaluru—supporting both infrastructure and diaspora outreach.

• Heritage Restoration: The historic Alipiri Padala Mandapam will undergo structural conservation, funded by the Lord Venkateswara Charitable Trust and ASI engineers to secure its legacy for centuries.

Spiritual Calendar & Darshan Trends

TTD’s spiritual pulse in June is vibrant, marked by festivals, pilgrim influx, and insightful data:

In early June, daily darshan figures remained robust—ranging from approximately 67,000 to over 88,000 pilgrims per day. Notably, on one weekend in April/May, over 91,000 pilgrims visited in a single day .

Broader Governance & Budget Highlights

Budget for FY 2025–26

The TTD Board approved a ₹5,258–5,259 crore budget, aimed at temple renovations, human resources, infrastructure, and welfare. Breakdown:

• ₹1,729 cr from hundi collection

• ₹600 cr from prasadam sales

• ₹310 cr darshan tickets, and more.

• Funds allocated for Potu kitchen staff, temple reconstructions, guesthouses, sports complex and vigilance.

Vigilance & Security Reinforcement

KV Muralikrishna was recently appointed as Chief Vigilance & Security Officer (CVSO), emphasizing tighter temple oversight.

Takeaways: What “Today” Tells Us

• Pilgrim-Centric Enhancements: TTD is enhancing pilgrim convenience through feedback systems, faster entry via upgraded checkpoints, nutritious prasadam, and VIP segment scheduling adjustments.

• Infrastructure & Heritage: Airport renaming, electric buses, heritage restoration—all point to long-term strategic growth aligned with heritage protection and environmental care.

• Devotional Rhythm: June’s festivals are reinforcing religious devotion; consistently high darshan numbers show unwavering pilgrim interest.

• Financial Strength: The significant ₹5,258 crore budget underscores bold planning and allocation for spiritual and socio-cultural upliftment.

Highlights of TTD Today

1. Modernization of Alipiri checkpoint to expedite pilgrim flow.

2. Launch of daily 35,000 hot vadas as prasadam.

3. Monthly, department-wise pilgrim feedback for service improvement.

4. Proposal to rename Renigunta Airport as Sri Venkateswara International Airport.

5. New electric buses and a temple project in Bengaluru.

6. Restoration of the 300-year-old Alipiri Padala Mandapam.

7. June festivals: Varshika Tirunakshatram, Jyesthabhishekam, Ekadashis, and Periyalwar Utsavam.

8. Daily darshan footfall between 67k–90k+ pilgrims.

9. ₹5,258 crore budget approved for FY 2025–26.

10. Appointment of KV Muralikrishna as TTD’s head of vigilance and security.

Conclusion

“TTD Today” represents a deliberate blend of tradition and progression. By upgrading infrastructure, enriching devotional services, staying financially robust, and preserving heritage, TTD is shaping a well-rounded vision—spiritual, sustainable, and service-driven. These developments showcase a trust that’s responsive to modern needs while deeply rooted in sacred traditions.