Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has taken legal action after a real estate company's advertisement promised lifetime VIP break darshan at the Tirumala temple to customers purchasing residential plots. It categorically denied any association with the promotion, describing it as false, misleading, and unauthorised.
The controversy started after promotional material circulated widely on social media by SCP Developers claimed that buyers of residential plots in one of its projects near the Tirupati highway would have lifetime access to VIP break darshan at the famous Tirumala temple. The advertisement also urged prospective buyers to contact the company for further details regarding the purported benefit.
The claim quickly attracted attention online, with many devotees wondering whether the offer had the approval of the temple administration.
TTD has no connection with this advertisement or the promises made by the real estate company, it said. The temple trust has not authorised any private individual or company to offer VIP darshan privileges in exchange for the purchase of land, property, or any commercial product, officials said.
TTD officials said the advertisement was likely to mislead devotees and exploit the faith of those who go to one of the country’s most revered pilgrimage centres. The promotion could damage the reputation of the institution and create confusion among pilgrims, they said.
Taking serious note of the situation, the temple administration ordered the police to take legal recourse against the people who issued and circulated the advertisement. Police will investigate whether cheating or false advertising has been conducted or if there has been misuse of the temple's name.
TTD has also appealed to devotees not to believe or respond to any advertisements or claims that promise temple privileges, special darshan, or religious benefits in return for purchasing property or making commercial investments.
All darshan categories, ticket bookings, and temple-related services are only done through the official TTD channels and in accordance with the rules. Any claims made by third parties of guaranteed VIP access or preferential treatment should be treated with caution.
The incident has once again underscored the misuse of religious institutions and public trust for commercial promotion. Advertisements linking commercial goods with religious privileges are misleading and can lead to legal action if the claims are proven to be false, consumer rights experts say.
The controversy has also led to discussions about the need for stricter oversight of promotional campaigns that use the names of prominent religious institutions without authorisation.
As the investigation moves forward, police will examine the advertisement, identify those who have published it, and determine whether criminal or regulatory action is warranted.
TTD has also assured devotees that any official announcement about darshan facilities, temple services, or special privileges will only be made through its authorised platforms. Devotees are advised to verify such claims before making financial commitments based on promotional offers.
