Tirumala, the abode of Lord Venkateshwara, and Tirupati, located at the feet of the Lord, are inseparable and sacred to Hindus.
Both are revered spiritual destinations, with Tirupati often considered a spiritual hub of the world. This is why the TTD administration office is located in Tirupati, and devotees see it as a center of spirituality.
For many years, there has been a demand to ban alcohol in Tirupati, but no effective steps have been taken towards this goal.
Despite Chandrababu Naidu, a devoted follower of Lord Venkateswara, serving as Chief Minister, and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, known for his commitment to Sanatana Dharma, along with the BJP, which upholds Hindutva values as a coalition partner, a ban on alcohol in Tirupati has not yet been enforced.
As the coalition government prepares to introduce a new alcohol policy starting October 1, there is growing pressure to implement a ban on alcohol in Tirupati, which is regarded as a spiritual capital for Hindus.
In Gujarat, prohibition has been in place for decades, honoring Mahatma Gandhi's principles, as it is his birthplace. However, it seems unlikely that the AP government will willingly forgo the revenue generated from alcohol sales in favor of upholding spiritual values.
Surprisingly, in the list of district-wise allocations of wine shops, Tirupati has been allocated the highest number, with 240 general shops and 24 toddy shops, totaling 264.
If this is the level of respect given to the hub of 'Sanatana Dharma,' it raises questions about the ruling party’s true stance, especially when they claim to protect Sanatana Dharma.
If Pawan Kalyan claims to be the savior of Sanatana Dharma, he should act to stop this. Otherwise, his actions in the name of Sanatana Dharma will appear to be mere theatrics.