Tridandi Srimannarayana Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji Emphasizes Need to Safeguard Temple Traditions and Autonomy
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Tridandi Srimannarayana Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji emphasized the crucial role of temples in the well-being of society, likening them to a "recharge point" essential for a prosperous life, much like a cellphone needs a functioning battery. He recalled the historical importance of temples, where kings and landlords donated lands and ornaments for their upkeep, believing that the proper management of temples would bring peace and prosperity.
During the "Haindava Shankharavam" organized by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) at Kesarapalli near Vijayawada, Swamiji noted that temples in Andhra Pradesh once owned about 15 lakh acres of land, but over time, the Endowments Department's takeover has reduced this to just 4.5 lakh acres today. He emphasized the importance of having knowledgeable Dharmadhikaris, rather than bureaucrats, overseeing temple management and rituals.
Swamiji criticized the interference of officials in temple affairs, questioning whether bureaucrats should determine the duration of rituals or if such decisions should be left to the temple administrators. He asserted that temples, built and maintained by the people, should be free from external control. While acknowledging the necessity of endowments, he insisted that officials must adhere to the traditions set by the temple founders.
Highlighting the historical laws established in the 19th century, Swamiji expressed concern over political and bureaucratic control that has damaged temple traditions. He called for the implementation of the Supreme Court's 1996 ruling on the return of temple assets and stressed the need for the preservation of temple rituals and autonomy. Swamiji urged devotees to unite in efforts to reclaim and preserve temple traditions, concluding that if the "Haindava Shankharavam" inspired such initiatives, it would have achieved its goal.
During the "Haindava Shankharavam" organized by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) at Kesarapalli near Vijayawada, Swamiji noted that temples in Andhra Pradesh once owned about 15 lakh acres of land, but over time, the Endowments Department's takeover has reduced this to just 4.5 lakh acres today. He emphasized the importance of having knowledgeable Dharmadhikaris, rather than bureaucrats, overseeing temple management and rituals.
Swamiji criticized the interference of officials in temple affairs, questioning whether bureaucrats should determine the duration of rituals or if such decisions should be left to the temple administrators. He asserted that temples, built and maintained by the people, should be free from external control. While acknowledging the necessity of endowments, he insisted that officials must adhere to the traditions set by the temple founders.
Highlighting the historical laws established in the 19th century, Swamiji expressed concern over political and bureaucratic control that has damaged temple traditions. He called for the implementation of the Supreme Court's 1996 ruling on the return of temple assets and stressed the need for the preservation of temple rituals and autonomy. Swamiji urged devotees to unite in efforts to reclaim and preserve temple traditions, concluding that if the "Haindava Shankharavam" inspired such initiatives, it would have achieved its goal.