AP Talk: Are VVIP Darshans In Temples A Sin?

When it comes to the Hindu culture, the role of gods, temples and darshan of temples play a very important role in the majority population. So much that for some, holidays or vacations is about visiting various temples. Therefore, it is natural that the ‘Darshan’ factor becomes crucial for getting that sense of serenity and self-achievement. But then, things get really cheesy if something goes wrong with the darshan factor. Usually, such trouble arises due to the VVIP darshans.
 
Sambasiva Rao, an LIC officer said “Well, the general procedure is that long queues are stopped and VVIP darshans take place and this is wrong. All are equal before god why show this disparity.” Shakuntala, a teacher said “If stopping the queues is one thing, these VVIPs end up spending atleast fifteen to twenty minutes inside the sanctum sanctorum. When our turn comes, we are literally pushed away barely getting fifteen to twenty seconds to see the deity.”
 
However, the VVIPs have a different version. Linga Reddy, a contractor said “When there is chance and god is calling, is it wise in stopping and saying I will wait and have darshan with all? I don’t think so.” Vishweswar Rao, executive director in an MNC said “Putting dubious efforts and using influence may be wrong but when temple authorities are taking us as VIP then why stop.” Mrinalini, wife of an industrialist revealed “Having darshan of god doesn’t come with influence alone, there is also a cost factor involved. The temple authorities treat us like that because they expect huge donations for the maintenance of the temples. So it is more of a mutual benefit thing.”
 
However, the rationalists say “Whatever it is, a balance must be created between the VVIP and regular darshans. As along as it is not causing inconvenience to others, VVIP darshan is fine. In a way, it is more of a karma theory. By doing a lot of ‘Punyam’ in past birth, an individual becomes VIP. Attaining that status is virtue so with that come few privileges. When folks like Rajinikanth follow the clear early morning policy to save trouble for the regular crowds, every VVIP can follow that. Even the temple folks must stop getting greedy and maintain strict timings for that.”