Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams to Use XR to Bring Temple History to Your Fingertips

The Fusion of Faith and Future: TTD’s New Tech Roadmap

In a significant move to blend ancient tradition with cutting-edge technology, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) is set to revolutionize how devotees experience its local and affiliated temples.On Saturday, January 3, 2026, TTD Executive Officer (EO) Anil Kumar Singhal directed officials to explore the integration of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) to showcase the architectural and spiritual grandeur of these sacred sites.

The initiative aims to ensure that the rich mythological history and intricate beauty of TTD’s satellite temples—often overshadowed by the main Tirumala shrine—are brought to the global stage

Key Highlights of the Digital Transformation:

• Scan & Learn (AR Integration): One of the most exciting proposals is a dedicated mobile app. Devotees will be able to scan temple sculptures and images with their smartphones to instantly unlock the "Puranic" (mythological) and historical stories behind them.

• Virtual Darshan (VR Experience): VR technology will be used to provide an immersive look at temple rituals and significance, allowing devotees to feel the spiritual atmosphere of various local temples from anywhere.

• Expanded Media Reach: To further publicize the services and daily rituals of these temples, TTD is considering launching an additional channel under Sri Venkateswara Bhakti Channel (SVBC), mirroring the extensive coverage currently given to the main Tirumala temple.

Strengthening Management and Welfare

Beyond the digital upgrades, the review meeting held at the TTD Administrative Building focused on grassroots improvements:

1. Special Officers for Local Temples: To ensure better maintenance and devotee facilities, special officers will be appointed to oversee affiliated temples. They are tasked with frequent inspections and reporting on developmental needs.

2. Universal Annadanam: Following the directives of Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, TTD will extend the Annadanam (free meal) program to all its temples. To maintain transparency, the EO ordered separate bank accounts for "General" and "Annadanam" funds at each location.

3. Enhanced Pilgrim Amenities: The plan includes a comprehensive overhaul of basic infrastructure, focusing on better queue management, CCTV security, medical services, and hygiene.

Why This Matters

This technological leap is not just about "modernization"; it is about preserving and sharing the heritage of Andhra Pradesh. By using AR and VR, TTD is making temple history accessible to the tech-savvy younger generation while ensuring that every visitor—whether in person or online—can appreciate the profound cultural legacy of these holy sites.

As TTD moves toward a more transparent and tech-driven governance model, the message is clear: the path to the divine is now more interactive and inclusive than ever before.