Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams is set to introduce the online sale of gold and silver dollars featuring Lord Ezhumalaiyan, responding to requests from devotees seeking easier access to sacred temple memorabilia.
Devotees visiting the Tirumala temple traditionally purchase laddu prasadams, calendars, diaries, incense sticks and sacred threads according to their means and take them home as offerings and souvenirs.
In the past, gold and silver dollars bearing sacred images were also sold through Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams bookshops. However, the sale of these coins was discontinued for certain reasons. Over time, devotees urged the temple administration to resume the sale of dollars featuring Lord Ezhumalaiyan and Padmavati.
Responding to the demand, the temple administration has decided to facilitate the sale of these coins through an online platform. During discussions, some devotees pointed out that the high price of gold makes gold dollars expensive for many pilgrims and suggested that silver dollars, including gold-plated versions, be made available online.
Accepting the suggestion, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams plans to introduce gold, silver and gold-plated silver coins in 5 gram and 10 gram denominations. The coins will feature the Tirumala hills on one side and Padmavati on the other.
The initiative is expected to enable devotees to purchase the coins conveniently online and receive them at their homes in the near future.
