TTD’s AI-Driven Quick Darshan Plan Sparks Sharp Debate in Tirupati

TTD’s AI-Assisted Quick Darshan Plan Sparks Debate in Andhra Pradesh

Tirupati: The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has proposed using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to speed up darshan for devotees. This move has sparked controversy after retired Andhra Pradesh chief secretary L.V. Subramanyam publicly questioned the feasibility of the plan.

Subramanyam, who also served as the TTD executive officer, expressed doubts about AI delivering darshan within one to two hours, citing physical and procedural constraints inside the temple. He urged the TTD trust board to reconsider and focus resources on improving facilities for devotees waiting to see Lord Venkateswara.

He emphasized, “Spending on unproven technology in the name of AI is not wise.” According to him, the sheer volume of devotees and limited space make quick darshan through AI unrealistic and not beneficial.

TTD Chairman Responds to Criticism

TTD chairman B.R. Naidu strongly disagreed with Subramanyam’s viewpoint, calling the objections ill-informed. He highlighted that the AI system is being developed in collaboration with reputed organizations like Google and TCS, funded by donors at no cost to the temple.

Naidu clarified the purpose of AI in this context is to reduce long waiting times and ease the hardships of devotees, especially in the Vaikuntam queue complex. He stressed that AI will help manage crowd flow and time slot allocation, but will not interfere with temple rituals or worship.

“AI is intended to bring efficiency to queue management, not to alter traditions,” Naidu said. He pointed out the importance of adopting technology in managing large crowds and dismissed the criticism as lacking understanding of current efforts.

What AI Will and Won’t Do at Tirumala

• AI will be used to allocate time slots for darshan
• It will regulate crowd movement and streamline queue management
• It will not be involved in any worship or ritual activities
• The initiative aims to shorten waiting times and improve the pilgrimage experience

This debate highlights the challenges of integrating technology into traditional settings where large crowds and cultural sensitivities coexist. As TTD moves forward with its AI plans, balancing innovation with respect for tradition remains key.

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