AP: Rush of pilgrims in Tirumala hill shrine

Tirumala, July 9:The famous Venkateswara temple here witnessed heavy rush during the weekend, with over 70,000 pilgrims having darshan on the unique and auspicious day of July 7.

More than 50,000 pilgrims had darshan till last evening and the number was expected to cross 60,000. The Srivari hundi collection, except ornaments, crossed Rs 1.10 crore yesterday, a TTD official here said.

The TTD authorities had introduced 'Maha Lagu Darshan' even for seva ticket holders yesterday morning. Issuance of recommendation letters for darshan were suspended on Saturday and restored only last evening in view of the heavy rush.

The TTD had made arrangements for distribution of food packets, milk and water to those waiting in the queue for the Srivari darshan at Vaikunta queue complex-II.

UNI