In another technology-driven initiative aimed at improving pilgrim convenience, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has introduced QR code based footwear management counters in Tirumala, modeled on the luggage counter system.

The new facility was inaugurated by TTD Additional Executive Officer Ch Venkaiah Chowdary at the Matrusri Tarigonda Vengamamba Annaprasadam Complex (MTVAC) in Tirumala.

Speaking to the media after the inauguration, Venkaiah Chowdary said the initiative offers a permanent and effective solution to the long-standing issue of footwear management faced by pilgrims on the hill shrine. He explained that the system was first introduced as a pilot project at Vaikuntha Queue Complex-2, where it received an overwhelmingly positive response from devotees. Following its success, eight QR code enabled footwear counters have now been established at key locations across Tirumala.

Under the new system, pilgrims depositing their footwear at the counter are issued a QR code generated slip. The slip carries complete information, including the number of footwear items, size, rack number, box number and storage location. When pilgrims return, scanning the QR code immediately displays the precise location of their footwear, enabling quick and hassle-free retrieval.

“With the implementation of this system, nearly 99 percent of pilgrims are now able to collect their footwear without difficulty. Earlier, due to mixed-up piles, only about 70 to 80 percent could retrieve their footwear, and many were left behind,” the Additional EO said.

He noted that the project has been fully implemented by Coromandel International Limited as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative. The system, he added, stands out as one of the best practices in temple administration in the country, significantly enhancing pilgrim convenience while also contributing to cleanliness and orderliness in Tirumala.

Venkaiah Chowdary also appealed to devotees not to leave footwear indiscriminately at any location on the hill. “Pilgrims should deposit their footwear only at the designated counters. This will help maintain cleanliness and protect the sanctity of Tirumala,” he said.

Senior Vice President of Coromandel International Limited K Satyanarayana, along with other TTD officials, was present at the inauguration ceremony.

Arrangements completed for Goda Kalyanam 

Goda Kalyanam will be conducted on Thursday, January 15, the day following the conclusion of the sacred Dhanurmasam, at the open ground located within the premises of the TTD Administrative Building in Tirupati. 

The programme will take place from 6.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. and will be telecast live by SVBC. The Utsava idols of Sri Krishnaswamy and Sri Andal Ammavaru will be exquisitely decorated, and the Kalyanam will be performed in a grand manner by the temple priests.

On this occasion, a dance ballet depicting Goda Kalyanam will also be presented. The programme will conclude with Govindanama Sankirtana.