Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has approved a major project aimed at extending the grandeur of Tirumala temple traditions beyond Andhra Pradesh, giving the green signal for gold-plated armour for the presiding deity at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, Ulwe, Mumbai.
The decision was taken during a recent governing council meeting held in Tirupati. According to officials, the temple will feature gold-plated copper armour not only for the main deity, Lord Venkateswara, in the sanctum sanctorum but also for idols in associated sub-temples.
The project is estimated to cost Rs 5.12 crore, including Rs 4.90 crore for materials and Rs 22 lakh for labour. Nearly three kilograms of 24-carat gold will be sourced from the TTD treasury, while around 125 kilograms of copper sheets will be procured from the temple’s jewellery department.
Officials stated that the initiative reflects TTD’s commitment to preserving the spiritual richness and architectural traditions of Tirumala temples, even when replicated in other parts of the country.
In a parallel move, the TTD Board has also focused on sustainability measures in Tirumala. To tackle waste generated from Tetra Paks and metal cans, a Hyderabad-based organisation, Recycle, will install reverse vending machines across the hill town. Under a ‘Deposit Refund Scheme’, these machines will be set up at 50 points across 28 locations free of cost.
Devotees will be able to deposit used cans and cartons and receive refunds, encouraging responsible waste disposal.
With lakhs of pilgrims visiting Tirumala daily, officials believe the initiative will significantly reduce littering and enhance overall cleanliness in the temple town.
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