The YS family seems to be repeating a past mistake. During YSR’s time as Chief Minister, there were statements by ministers suggesting that Lord Venkateswara’s abode in Tirumala had only five hills instead of the traditional seven. Now, the situation is reminiscent, as ministers are drawing comparisons between the constructions at Rishikonda in Visakhapatnam and the revered Lord Venkateswara Temple at Tirumala.
This comparison has been met with strong disapproval and is seen as insensitive. It’s notable that Bhumana Karunakar Reddy is currently the Chairman of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), a position he held during both these instances. In the state, it’s well-known that the YS family has a Christian background. It’s also important to recognize that there are various structures on hills in the Telugu-speaking states. Temples like Lord Venkateswara in Tirupati and Mallikarjunaswami in Srisailam are located on hills.
Additionally, there are structures in areas like Jubilee Hills and even Ramanaidu’s studio in Visakhapatnam. These statements have been made by ministers Roja, Amarnath, and other leaders from the ruling party. The appointment of Bhumana Karunakar Reddy as TTD Chairman is seen as a repetition of past mistakes. Notably, during YSR’s time, the influence of social media was not as widespread.
Following Bhumana’s appointment as TTD Chairman, pictures of his daughter’s marriage, conducted according to Christian tradition, were circulated on social media. This comparison was raised as a justification for government constructions in Rushikonda. However, two significant points should be considered.
Many revered gods and deities are associated with hills, such as Tirupati, Srisailam, Yadagiri, Vijayawada, Annavaram, Simhachalam, and Kedarnath. A number of these well-known temples are situated on hills. The sanctity of Tirumala Hill has been a matter of concern due to various events that have transpired since 2019, which has not been received well by the Hindu community. This situation does not reflect positively on the Jagan government.
