Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has decided to permit recommendation letters from Telangana MPs, MLAs, and MLCs for Srivari darshans in Tirumala. This decision was taken as a response to a letter from Telangana CM Revanth Reddy who requested the revival of this practice.
Background of the Decision
Previously, devotees from Telangana were allowed to make use of letters of recommendation from their public representatives for darshans in Tirumala. However, this practice had been withdrawn. In a letter dated December 16, CM Revanth Reddy pointed out the increasing number of Telangana devotees visiting Sri Venkateswara Swamy and requested the Andhra Pradesh government to revive the facility of such letters.
Responding positively, CM Chandrababu Naidu stated that the good relations between the Telugu-speaking states are important. He directed the Tirumala officials to implement the decision properly.
Darshan Arrangement Details
In the new guidelines:
- VIP Break Darshan (Rs. 500 ticket): Two recommendation letters per public representative (MLA, MLC, MP) will be permitted on two days within a fortnight (Monday to Thursday).
- Special Darshan (Rs. 300 ticket): Two extra letters of recommendation will be allowed during the same time period.
- A letter of recommendation will also accommodate six pilgrims during darshan
It balances the slots evenly as large numbers of pilgrims have been coming from Telangana.
Revanth Reddy and Others Express Gratitude
Appreciation was already happening as CM Revanth Reddy expressed his gratitude over the social media platform 'X' or former Twitter.
It was followed by thanks from Speaker Prasad Kumar, Council Chairman Gutta, and Minister Surekha for the decision taken by CM Chandrababu Naidu.
Implementation Timeline
The TTD officials are making necessary arrangements. Recommendation letters are said to be accepted after Vaikuntha Dwara Darshans of January 10 to 19.
This policy change will help Telangana devotees have a more convenient time accessing darshans at Tirumana.
