Experts at the fifth lecture on “Vaishnava Agama” stressed on the importance of harmonious functioning of the religious rituals and sacred activities along with the general administration of a temple in order to ensure its long-lasting development. The lecture was conducted at the regional centre of Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts (IGNCA).

IGNCA’s Tirupati regional centre, functioning under the union Ministry of Culture, has been conducting the lecture series to create awareness and deeper understanding of temple-related ecosystem among general public.

T. Vijaya Raghavacharyulu, a retired professor at National Sanskrit University (NSU), Tirupati, in his address on ‘Cultural aspects of temple administration in Vaishnava Agamic tradition,’ explained the significance of traditional administrative systems, ritual discipline, temple customs and the role of Agamas in preserving the spiritual and cultural identity of temples.

In this context, he explained that temple administration should run parallel to religious practices without any interference, and at the same time ensuring community participation for unhindered growth and development.

K. Purushottamacharyulu, an associate professor in the Department of Krishna Yajurveda at Sri Venkateswara Vedic University (SVVU), stressed upon the role of Vaishnava Agamic traditions in safeguarding the sanctity of temples.

IGNCA Regional Director K.T.V. Raghavan, in his welcome address, said the lecture series was aimed at promoting public awareness on temple culture.