For the first time in the history of Yadagirigutta Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, the administration is preparing to introduce VIP break darshan on January 1, following the increase in the number of VIP devotees in the recent past.
Speaking to The Hindu , Temple Assistant Executive Officer Dorabala Bhaskara Sharma, has said they used to get about 40,000 pilgrims on new year’s day, but this time they are expecting an increase in the number of pilgrims as Amavasya is coinciding with the day. He said that the decision was taken with the intention of not disturbing other devotees. The authorities have decided to introduce three hours of break darshan -- from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., 11.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday. Though everyone has to purchase the Rs. 150 ticket to get entry into the temple for VIP darshan, earlier, most pilgrims used to skip purchasing tickets on ordinary days. On this particular day, all VIPs must purchase Rs. 150 tickets to avail break darshan. The temple administration has also decided to open the temple on that particular day at 3 a.m. against the regular opening time of 4 a.m.
From December 31 night, the temple administration has decided to ban four-wheelers to the shrine to arrest traffic jams. Instead, they have decided to operate special RTC buses in addition to regular temple buses to help pilgrims reach the shrine safely..
