How Tirupati Went Into The Hands Of The Colonial Govt

The Tirupati Story

Dear Reader,

Should temples like Tirupati be free from governmental control? How can we balance accountability with the sanctity of faith? These questions strike at the heart of the present-day temple freedom movement. Especially after the recent laddu controversy.

But this question begets another inquiry. How did the abode of Shri Hari fall under the government control in the first place? How did it get entangled in the colonial power struggles?

The story of how this sacred space came under British control and subsequently under the Indian government is as fascinating as the legend of Kubera’s 1000-year debt that binds Lord Balaji to his devotees.

Mauryas, Satavahanas, Pallavas, Cholas, Sangamas-Saluvas-Thuluvas of the Vijayanagara, and others — the temple’s history reflects the unwavering devotion of Indian dynasties towards Lord Balaji even through their ebb and flow.

However, things changed when temple revenues became collateral for a Nawab’s debts to the East India Company, paving the way for colonial involvement.

Since then the British meticulously documented every aspect of the temple, from rituals to finances, in what became known as Bruce's Code.

But their active role in Hindu rituals sparked backlash, leading to a complex transition of power back to local custodians.

Today, the temple is under state control. But the question that frequently arises: should the government oversee one of India's most revered temples? Or is it time to rethink this arrangement?

Here is Aditi Gurkar's piece on how the control of Tirumala Tirupati temple went into the hands of British.

PS: This story is part of our special issue on the issue of government control of temples and how best to change it.

- Anmol N Jain

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