What Is The 'Declaration' System At Tirumala? The Rule For Non-Hindu Visitors Explained Amid Tirupati Laddu Row

Explained: Why Tirumala Temple has a declaration rule that requires non-Hindu devotees to submit a signed affidavit affirming their respect for Lord Venkateswara and adherence to temple rules.

The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple requires non-Hindu devotees to submit a signed declaration (inset).

Source : PTI & X

Hyderabad: The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, one of Hinduism's most revered shrines, is renowned for its deep-rooted traditions, spiritual sanctity, and the devotion of millions who visit annually. However, for non-Hindu devotees, the process of 'darshan' involves an additional step — the submission of a formal declaration. This system has a complex history, rooted in concerns over preserving the temple's sanctity.

What Is The Declaration Rule At Tirumala?

The declaration system mandates that non-Hindu devotees wishing to seek darshan of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala must submit a signed affidavit, affirming their faith, respect, and devotion towards the deity. The declaration also assures adherence to the temple's rules and rituals, making it a crucial process for devotees of other faiths who seek entry into the temple premises.

Introduced officially in the 1990s under the Religious Endowments Act 30/1987, this rule was incorporated as Rule 136 in the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) regulations. According to the process, non-Hindu devotees must submit the declaration form at the Vaikuntham Queue Complex before proceeding for darshan.

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When Was The Declaration Rule Implemented At Tirumala?

The roots of this system date back to the early 19th century during British rule. Historical accounts suggest that the British administration introduced this measure as a way to address concerns raised by certain Hindu groups regarding the entry of non-Hindus into the sacred temple space. 

Controversies arose as people from other countries and faiths began visiting Tirumala, with some expressing concerns over the impact on the temple's religious sanctity. This prompted the rulers and TTD authorities to formulate the declaration process, which has since evolved into a formal regulation.

Procedure For Submitting The Tirumala Declaration

Non-Hindu devotees visiting the temple are required to sign a declaration form stating that they respect Lord Venkateswara and adhere to the temple’s practices. The declaration form, which is typically submitted at the 17th compartment of the Vaikuntham Queue Complex, is a necessary step for these devotees before they can proceed for darshan.

In the case of prominent personalities, the temple officials often visit their accommodation to collect the signed declaration. This practice ensures that the rules are upheld even when high-profile visitors, including VIPs and politicians, visit the temple.

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Prominent Figures And The Declaration Controversy

Over the years, several prominent figures have submitted the declaration, underscoring its importance in maintaining the temple's sanctity. Notable instances include the visit of former Indian President APJ Abdul Kalam, who, despite holding the nation’s highest office, signed the declaration during his visit to Tirumala. However, controversy erupted in 2006 when Congress leader Sonia Gandhi visited the temple but did not submit the declaration, sparking a public debate.

Another significant figure linked to this debate is Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. Despite multiple visits to Tirumala — both as an MP and later as the state’s chief minister — Jagan has reportedly not submitted the declaration during his darshan of Lord Venkateswara. This has raised concerns and protests from some Hindu organisations, who argue that the rule should apply uniformly to all visitors, regardless of their political or social standing.

In the latest round of debates surrounding the declaration, reports have emerged that TTD officials are preparing to approach Jagan Mohan Reddy during his next visit to secure his signature on the declaration. Hindu groups and opposition parties have voiced their dissatisfaction over his previous visits without submitting the declaration, accusing him of undermining temple protocols.

This report first appeared on ABP Desam, and has been translated from Telugu.