Hyderabad, Feb 27 (TNT): Dr M.V. Soundararajan, the hereditary archaka and trustee of the renowned Chilkur Sri Balaji Temple, passed away here on Friday due to prolonged illness.
He was 90.
An MCom and LLB graduate with a Doctorate in Commerce, Dr. Soundararajan is also the recipient of the ‘Best Teacher Award’ from the Government of Andhra Pradesh in 1981
Widely regarded as a reformer, Dr Soundararajan was instrumental in introducing key changes at the temple, including the elimination of the hundi (cash offerings) system and VIP special darshans.
He championed temple autonomy and traditional modes of worship, advocating a “no-cash” policy that encouraged devotion through pradakshinas instead of monetary offerings.
Under his stewardship, the temple gained fame as the “Visa Balaji Temple,” where devotees perform 11 circumambulations for wishes and 108 upon fulfillment.
He is an active member of the Temple Protection Movement and has fought to keep the temple free from state control.
His family has served as hereditary trustees and priests for generations, with his son, C.S. Rangarajan, also heavily involved in the temple’s administration.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed deep sorrow over his demise, recalling his contributions to spiritual awareness and temple traditions.
In a condolence message, Revanth reddy said Soundararajan had earned wide respect not only as the head priest of the temple but also as an academician who served with distinction as a professor and Registrar of Osmania University.
Describing his passing as a significant loss to the spiritual and academic community, the Chief Minister prayed for peace to the departed soul and strength to the bereaved family during this difficult time.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also condoled his passing, describing his lifelong service to temple independence and preservation of traditions as memorable and inspiring.
In a post on ‘X’, Naidu said it was “heartbreaking” to learn about the passing of Soundararajan.
Naidu prayed for peace to the departed soul and conveyed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family members.
Dr Soundararajan’s death is seen as a significant loss to the spiritual community and devotees associated with the temple.
TNT TS
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