Andhra Pradesh Government Grants Autonomy to Temples in Religious Matters

The TDP-led NDA government in Andhra Pradesh has issued new orders aimed at preserving the sanctity of temple customs and traditions by granting full autonomy to temples in matters related to Vedic and Agama practices. This decision ensures that temples can conduct rituals and ceremonies without external interference, allowing them to uphold their unique traditions.

This move comes in response to Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan’s call for a national law to protect Sanatana Dharma and the creation of a national-level board to oversee its implementation. There has also been increasing pressure from Sangh Parivar groups to maintain the purity of temple traditions.

Agama traditions, which dictate the rituals and procedures for temple worship, include offerings, daily schedules, and ceremonies performed by trained priests. The senior-most archakas (priests) and religious staff of each temple will have the final say on all religious matters, including the conduct of rituals and sevas (offerings) to the deities. In case of disputes, the temple committee can seek guidance from Peethadhipathis (heads of religious institutions) regarding specific Agama traditions.

Importantly, the government’s directive clarifies that no temple is required to follow the customs of another, even if they share the same Agama tradition. Each religious institution will be treated as a distinct entity, free to maintain its own practices.

The Chandrababu Naidu-led government has also emphasized that executive authorities must refrain from interfering in religious matters such as fixing auspicious times (Muhurthams) for rituals like Yagams (sacrificial rituals) and Kumbabhishekams (consecration ceremonies), as well as the planning of festivals. Their role will be limited to ensuring that temple practices remain consistent with established Agama traditions.