Hyderabad, June 10:
Members of the Deccan Manav Seva Samithi (DMSS) have strongly appealed to Endowments Minister Konda Surekha to refrain from issuing tickets or VIP passes for the upcoming *Ujjaini Mahankali Temple Jatra*. During a recent coordination meeting, DMSS representatives emphasized that such measures would undermine the long-standing tradition of free and open access to the temple, especially during the Mahankali Jatra.
Prominent members of the Samithi, including Vinod, Vasundhara Raj, Shashank Pasupuleti, Seelam Anurag,and Nagarj, voiced their concerns to the minister, highlighting that for over a century, the Ujjaini Mahankali Temple has upheld a practice of providing free darshan to all devotees, irrespective of their status or background. They firmly stated that introducing VIP passes or special poojas with ticketing would contradict the cultural and spiritual significance of the festival, which has always been centered around inclusivity.
The Samithi members further requested that the traditional process remain undisturbed, with no commercialization or restriction of access during the Mahankali Jatra. They also emphasized that any changes to the current system would negatively impact the spirit of the event, which attracts over 10 lakh devotees from across the state and beyond.
Minister *Konda Surekha* assured the DMSS members that their concerns would be given due consideration, adding that the government remains committed to maintaining the sanctity of the Jatra while ensuring smooth arrangements and safety for the devotees. The minister also noted that she would continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that the festival is celebrated in the most orderly and respectful manner telanaga.
