In a significant act of devotion and philanthropy, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) received a generous donation of specialized silver blades valued at approximately Rs 1.2 crore. The contribution was made by a Hyderabad-based industrialist, marking a substantial support for the temple's daily rituals.
A Precious Donation for Sacred Rituals
The donor, Sridhar Boddupalli, who serves as a director at Vertice Global Pvt Ltd, formally presented the silver max half blades to the TTD authorities on Wednesday. The handover ceremony took place at the camp office of TTD chairman BR Naidu in Tirumala. This donation is not merely a monetary contribution but a direct supply of a crucial item used in the sacred practice of tonsuring.
These specific blades are essential tools at the TTD kalyanakattas, where barbers shave the heads of countless devotees. Pilgrims offer their hair as part of fulfilling vows made to Lord Venkateswara. Chairman BR Naidu expressed his gratitude, highlighting that this single donation would cater to the temple trust's needs for about a year. He revealed that the TTD typically spends an equivalent amount, Rs 1.2 crore annually, to procure these half blades.
Global Quality Meets Divine Service
The donated blades are products of Vertice Global, a company whose manufacturing prowess has gained international recognition. Chairman Naidu pointed out that the blades manufactured by Vertice Global have found a strong demand in 52 countries across the globe. This fact underscores the quality and reliability of the product now being used for a sacred purpose in Tirupati.
Impact and Significance
This donation serves a dual purpose. Primarily, it ensures a seamless and hygienic process for the millions of devotees who undertake the ritual of mokku (offering hair). Secondly, it provides significant financial relief to the temple administration, allowing allocated funds to be potentially redirected towards other charitable or infrastructural projects. The act by Sridhar Boddupalli sets a notable example of corporate social responsibility directed towards supporting India's rich cultural and religious heritage.
The TTD, which manages one of the world's richest and most visited Hindu temples, relies on both donations from devotees and its own revenue streams to maintain its vast operations. Contributions in kind, especially of items directly used in rituals, hold special importance and ensure the continuity of traditions that have been followed for centuries.
