Sri Kalahasti, known as Dakshina Kashi, has come under focus after concerns emerged over the alleged misuse of silver naga ornaments used during Rahu–Ketu pujas. The temple, famous for the Vayu Lingam among the Pancha Bhootas, attracts thousands of devotees daily seeking relief from planetary doshas. However, a section of people is reportedly exploiting the puja system, causing a potential loss to temple revenue.
Sri Kalahasti holds a unique place in Sanatana Dharma. Each sacred site carries its own spiritual identity, whether as a Jyotirlinga, Shakti Peetha, or Swayambhu kshetra. Devotees strongly believe that Rahu–Ketu pujas performed here resolve issues related to marriage, finances, business growth, and family disputes. Due to this belief, the temple conducts these pujas on a large scale every day.
The temple administration conducts Rahu–Ketu pujas from 5 am to 6 pm in multiple shifts. Ticket prices range from ₹500 to ₹5,000, depending on the number of participants per batch. On regular days, nearly 2,000 to 3,000 devotees attend these pujas, while the count touches 5,000 on festival days. Higher-value tickets allow devotees to perform pujas inside the temple, while others attend in nearby mandapams.
Earlier, the temple sourced silver naga ornaments through private contractors. After identifying financial leakage, officials introduced an in-house silver naga manufacturing unit at a cost of ₹3 lakh. This move significantly reduced expenses and increased revenue, as production costs dropped sharply compared to contractor rates. The decision initially helped strengthen temple finances.
Recently, however, a new issue has surfaced. Reports suggest that some individuals purchase Rahu–Ketu puja tickets in bulk, not for devotion but for profit. Each puja kit includes silver naga ornaments weighing around two to three grams. With silver prices rising sharply due to global demand, these ornaments fetch a high value in the open market.
Silver demand has surged worldwide due to its use in electric vehicles, solar panels, and green energy technologies. Market prices reportedly reached nearly ₹3,400 per gram. This price gap has encouraged misuse, as devotees receive silver naga items at a much lower cost through temple pujas.
Devotees have expressed concern over this trend, stating that sacred offerings meant for worship should not turn into commercial tools. They have urged the Sri Kalahasti Devasthanam to strengthen surveillance and ensure transparency in ticket issuance. Many believe puja tickets should reach genuine devotees only.
The temple administration now faces pressure to respond. Whether stricter rules, identity verification, or changes in puja material distribution will be introduced remains to be seen. For now, devotees await decisive action to protect the sanctity and revenue of the historic Sri Kalahasti temple.
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