Ex-Tirumala chief priest slams TTD

Tirmala temple’s ousted chief priest Dr A.V. Ramana Deekshitulu on Sunday criticised the temple board for demolishing ancient temples in the name of renovation.

He told mediapersons that the demolitions were being carried out without taking approval from the authorities and in violation of Agama Shastra.

He asked why 22 days were taken two demolish four stones of Potu (the main kitchen where food offering for the Lord is prepared).

Dr Deekshitulu alleged that he was targeted and removed for bringing to light irregularities in the functioning of the TTD Trust Board and misuse of temple funds.

“Taking up new constructions on ancient structures is against Agama Shastra. Where is the need to demolish ancient structures? A portion of a 1,000-year-old structure has been demolished and stones have been removed,” he said.

“When I took up the issue with TTD executive officer (EO), he told me that he was not aware of it. How can TTD members order demolition without informing the EO.? Why did they close the Potu for 22 days? Why did they demolish the four stones of Potu? What was underneath those stones?,” Dr Deekshithulu stated.

The ousted chief priest said TTD officials had shifted the centre for preparation of prasadam outside, which was against the temple’s traditions.

“As per temple’s traditions, devotees should not see how prasadam is prepared. Only archakas and those preparing prasadam are allowed to see it. This is now being violated,” he alleged.