Nestled in the sacred hills of Tirumala, Tirupati is more than a pilgrimage — it is a living legacy of devotion and divine grace. From ancient Pallava endowments to the grandeur of the golden roof of the sanctum sanctorum donated by Krishna Deva Raya, its history is etched in every gopuram. Always reverbating with the chants of “Govinda”, for millions in South India, it is not just a temple, but an inseparable part of life’s journey.
The alleged defilement of prasad at the Tirupati temple has sent shockwaves through the Hindu community, striking at the heart of religious sentiments and sacred traditions. The use of impure substances in the prasad violates the spiritual and cultural sanctity of one of Hinduism’s most revered pilgrimage sites. Such an act challenges the very principles of purity and Dharma that define Hindu worship. Restoring the sanctity of the temple and ensuring accountability is now of paramount importance.
Sandeep Singh’s 'A Decade for Mandirs - Volume II' continues from his first volume, focussing on practical strategies for reclaiming and restoring Hindu temples. Singh critiques the state's deep-rooted anti-mandir bias and judicial meddling in temple matters. He advocates for reclaiming deity rights, respecting pujaris, and reviving cultural traditions. This volume is both a call to action and a detailed roadmap for Hindus to protect and rejuvenate their spiritual heritage.
Sandeep Singh’s 'Temple Economics' explores the economic systems around Hindu temples with meticulous detail. Divided into four parts, the book covers the history, destruction, and potential restoration of temple economies, emphasizing their cultural and economic significance.
The attitude of most heritage conservationists with regard to temples leaves a lot to be desired as these marvels struggle to survive.
India's laws are still stuck in the colonial era where natives were not considered good enough to manage their own institutions.