IAS Officer Muddada Ravichandra Takes Charge as New TTD Executive Officer
In a significant administrative development, the 1996 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, Muddada Ravichandra, officially assumed the role of the new executive officer of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) at Tirumala on Friday. This appointment marks a new chapter in the management of one of India's most revered pilgrimage sites.
Ceremonial Assumption of Office
Following established traditions, Ravichandra began his tenure by offering prayers to Sri Varaha Swamy. He then proceeded to the Tirumala temple, where he formally took charge as the TTD executive officer. The ceremony was conducted with due reverence and adherence to protocol.
On Friday morning, Ravichandra offered prayers to Lord Venkateswara Swamy at the sanctum sanctorum, seeking divine blessings for his new responsibilities. The oath of office was administered by TTD additional executive officer Ch Venkaiah Chowdary, who also inducted Ravichandra as an ex-officio member of the TTD trust board. This pivotal moment took place at the Bangaru Vakili inside the hill temple, symbolizing the integration of administrative duty with spiritual commitment.
Commitment to Devotees and Leadership
Addressing reporters after assuming charge, Ravichandra expressed his heartfelt prayers to Sri Venkateswara Swamy for the strength and wisdom to serve the multitude of devotees visiting Tirumala with utmost devotion and dedication. He emphasized his commitment to enhancing the pilgrimage experience for all visitors.
The new executive officer extended his gratitude to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu for providing him with this prestigious opportunity. Ravichandra outlined his vision for collaborative governance, stating that he would work in close coordination with the TTD board. He also pledged to actively seek suggestions and advice from devotees to improve and streamline pilgrim-friendly services, ensuring that the temple administration remains responsive to the needs of the faithful.
Immediate Administrative Actions
Demonstrating a proactive approach, Ravichandra swiftly engaged in administrative duties by holding review meetings with the Heads of Departments (HoDs) of Tirumala at Annamayya Bhavan. Subsequently, he convened with the HoDs of Tirupati at the conference hall of the administrative building. These meetings aimed to assess current operations and identify areas for enhancement in temple management and pilgrim services.
In a related development, Ravichandra unveiled posters detailing the Vimana and Ashtabandhana rituals scheduled to be performed at the Sri Veda Narayanaswamy temple in Nagalapuram. These rituals are set to take place from February 17 to February 22, highlighting the ongoing religious activities under the TTD's purview.
The appointment of Muddada Ravichandra as TTD executive officer is expected to bring fresh perspectives and administrative rigor to the management of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of spiritual and cultural heritage in Andhra Pradesh.
