Credit: PTI photo
Hyderabad: This year's 10-day Vaikuntha Dwara Darshanam from December 30 to January 8 drew a record 7.83 lakh devotees to the Lord Sri Venkateswara temple on Tirumala hills. Last year, token queues for Vaikuntha Ekadashi triggered a stampede that killed six devotees; this time, TTD's precautions including an AI-monitored crowd management system ensured smooth operations.
On January 2 (Friday), over 83,000 devotees had darshan the highest ever for a Friday followed by a new record of nearly 89,000 on January 3 (Saturday). Hundi collections hit Rs 41.14 crore, while 44 lakh Srivari laddus were sold, up 10 lakh from last year.
TTD Chairman BR Naidu highlighted robust security with 2,400 police personnel, 1,150 vigilance staff, and NCC/NSS students aiding crowd management. Around 33 lakh devotees received Annaprasadam, prepared and distributed efficiently by 1,000 staff to ensure satisfaction.
The first three days limited darshan to token holders, enabling smooth room allotments. Floral decorations—using 50 tonnes of traditional flowers, 10 tonnes of fruits, and 4 tonnes of cut flowers—created a divine Vaikuntha-like ambiance. About 2.06 lakh devotees opted for tonsure.
TTD Executive Officer Anil Kumar Singhal noted a surge in footfall not just at Tirumala but across TTD-affiliated temples nationwide. “Last Vaikuntha Ekadashi saw over 7 lakh devotees; this time it crossed 12 lakh. Recent TTD developments and word-of-mouth publicity boosted attendance,” he said.
Additional EO Ch Venkaiah Chowdary credited effective inter-departmental coordination and optimal time utilization for extended darshan hours, allowing more devotees a smooth experience than planned.