Current Affairs/Art and Culture
GS1 · Art and Culture2 Jul 2026 · The Hindu — National

Tirumala temple records highest-ever pilgrim footfalls and ‘hundi’ collection in June

The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple recorded historic high pilgrim footfalls and financial donations in June. This underscores the growing scale of religious tourism and the substantial socio-economic impact of temple economies in India. Managing such massive footfalls also brings focus on sustainable infrastructure and heritage management in ecological zones.

Read source at The Hindu — National

Mains Practice Question

Analyze the socio-economic significance of major temple economies in India. In this context, discuss the administrative and ecological challenges associated with managing mass religious tourism in ecologically sensitive areas.

250 words

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Prelims Practice MCQ

With reference to the famous Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, consider the following statements: 1. The temple architecture is predominantly constructed in the Dravidian style. 2. The temple received significant patronage and gold donations from the Vijayanagara emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya. 3. The temple is situated in the Seshachalam Hills, which is a designated Biosphere Reserve. Which of the statements given above are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3

All statements are correct. The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is built in the Dravidian architectural style. Emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire was a devout patron who visited the temple multiple times, donating gold and installing statues of himself and his consorts. The temple is located on the Seshachalam Hills, which was designated as the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve in 2010.

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