TIRUMALA BALAJI DARSHAN IN JUST 1 HOUR

Advanced Facial Recognition-Based Darshan System in 6 months; Bengaluru firm to implement it; current system of compartmentalising devotees outdated

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Trust Board is set to introduce a facial recognition-based Artificial Intelligence (AI) Darshan System to reduce waiting times for devotees.

In an exclusive interview with BSN Malleswara Rao, TTD Chairman BR Naidu revealed that the AI-powered system will be implemented within six months; once it is established, common devotees can complete Lord Venkateswara Swamy darshan within 1 hour.

A Bengaluru-based company has already begun pilot project preparations in Tirupati and Tirumala.

He envisioned Tirumala's transformation into a smart city, blending modern infrastructure, thoughtful town planning, and serene landscaping to evoke profound devotion.

The goal, he explained, is to create an immersive experience that envelops devotees in a spiritual ambiance, with carefully selected plants that delight both the senses of sight and smell.

BR Naidu asserted that he has the full backing of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan to implement necessary measures to restore Tirumala's former glory.

Confidently, he stated that his non-political background enables him to take bold decisions that his predecessors couldn't, particularly in safeguarding Hindu Sanatana Dharma.

Excerpts:

You made a surprise move at the first board meeting. With the second meeting slated to take place soon, what key decisions can we expect from you this time around?

As a devout follower of Lord Venkateswara, I firmly believe that Tirumala's sanctity was compromised during the previous administration.

It's our responsibility to review those decisions and restore the temple's sanctity.

While there are additional decisions on the horizon, I'm not at liberty to disclose them just yet.

One of the key decisions made by the board is the introduction of an AI-based system designed to significantly reduce waiting times for darshan.