The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has set new guidelines for renting out their Kalyana Mandapams.
It has about 304 Kalyana mandapams spread across seven states – AP (216), Telangana (77), Karnataka (5), Tamil Nadu (3) and one each in Kerala, Odisha and Gujarat. The changes are aimed at improving their utility and utilization.
Under the new rules, ‘expressions of interest’ from local temple authorities, organizations, corporations and other interested parties will be invited with the aim of getting the most out of the mandapams, rather than just earning a rental fee. The buildings may only be rented for Hindu religious and traditional events, with a driver prohibiting the consumption of non-vegetarian food and alcohol.
The TTD Hindu Dharma Prachara Parishad (HDPP) will organize religious and devotional programs based on availability.
Trees are to be planted in the open spaces of the mandapams, with the exception of the parking lot, except that a portion is reserved for makeshift arrangements for various religious festivals and fairs.
The tenant alone has to collect the rent in accordance with TTD, carry out repairs, bear the maintenance costs of the structures and pay GST.
An official team consisting of engineering and control staff and the relevant deputy law enforcement officers inspect the buildings twice a year and report to their superiors.
Lease extended
The tenancy of the mandapams has been increased from three to five years and can be extended by a further two years depending on the performance and fulfillment of the conditions.
In the meantime, the TTD has also decided to build new Kalyana mandapams in the future based on the local population, demographic conditions and a city’s revenue potential.