Last Updated:
Officials believe that if even a small percentage of daily visitors come forward to donate blood, Tirupati hospitals will never face a shortage
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams officials believe that the rush for darshan, lack of visible signboards, and limited publicity have kept the blood donation drive under the radar.
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the body managing one of the world’s busiest pilgrimage centres, is reviving attention on a decades-old initiative that blends spirituality with lifesaving service.
Since 1984, pilgrims visiting Tirumala have had the opportunity to donate blood at the TTD-run Ashwini Hospital—a facility that caters to thousands of patients every year. The donated blood supports critical surgeries and emergency needs across Tirupati’s hospitals.
Recommended Stories
What makes the initiative unique is its dual purpose: while pilgrims receive special entry darshan and tokens of appreciation, their donation also helps save lives. Yet, despite four decades of existence, awareness about the programme remains surprisingly low.
Now, TTD is launching renewed efforts to inform devotees about this opportunity, aiming to turn Tirumala’s spiritual footfall into a powerful public health resource.
A Blend of Devotion And Service
When the blood donation programme began in 1984, TTD introduced it as a way to encourage both social responsibility and devotion among pilgrims. Donors were rewarded with “break darshan” passes in its early years. While the system has now changed to special entry darshan, devotees still receive a certificate of appreciation and a laddu as a token of blessings.
This approach has allowed thousands of devotees to contribute meaningfully during their visit. It ensures that while pilgrims come seeking blessings, they also leave behind something that benefits others—a gift of life.
Why Awareness Remains Low
Despite the programme’s four-decade history, many devotees visiting Tirumala remain unaware of it. TTD officials believe that the rush for darshan, lack of visible signboards, and limited publicity have kept the initiative under the radar.
Now, with efforts to highlight the scheme through online portals, temple announcements, and media campaigns, TTD aims to reach more pilgrims so that both awareness and participation increase significantly.
Health And Spiritual Benefits
Medical experts point out that donating blood has proven health benefits for donors, such as improved heart health and better red blood cell production. For devotees, the act combines physical well-being with spiritual merit—an opportunity to serve humanity while seeking divine blessings.
The darshan facility adds another dimension to the programme. Pilgrims who donate blood not only get free special entry darshan but also experience the satisfaction of knowing that their act may have saved a life.
Service Beyond Religion
TTD officials highlight that blood donation transcends religion and region. With lakhs of pilgrims arriving from across the country and abroad, the hospital sees donors from diverse backgrounds. Many return year after year to donate again, creating a cycle of service and devotion.
The collected blood helps meet the needs of surgeries, accident victims, and patients requiring transfusions at BIRRD Hospital and other facilities in Tirupati. In times of crisis, such as natural disasters or emergencies, this stock proves invaluable.
What’s Next?
TTD now plans to expand awareness campaigns so that every devotee visiting Tirumala knows about the opportunity. Information desks, digital displays, and announcements in multiple languages are being considered to ensure maximum participation.
Officials believe that if even a small percentage of daily visitors come forward to donate blood, Tirupati hospitals will never face a shortage. Moreover, donors leave with both divine blessings and the satisfaction of saving lives, making it a truly unique experience.
About the Author
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d…Read More
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d… Read More
Loading comments…
Scan the QR code to download the News18 app and enjoy a seamless news experience anytime, anywhere
