The Endowments Department in Hyderabad is facing issues of accountability and transparency, leading to many temples losing valuable assets and traditions being neglected. There is confusion about the number of temples in Hyderabad, with records dating back to the 1960s and 1970s. The department has not organized records area-wise, making it difficult to track temple assets.
Many temples are located in different parts of Hyderabad, including areas like Charminar and Bahdurpura mandals. Some temples, like the Swamyambu Chennakesava Swamy temple in Chandrayanagutta, reportedly have assets worth crores of rupees, including commercial properties. However, details about these assets are not publicly disclosed. In contrast, some temple assets in Rangareddy district are listed as ‘Nil’ in public disclosures.
Around the Chennakesava Swamy temple, there are signs of neglect and lack of traditional practices. The temple’s land meant for a Ratha Shala is unused, and events such as Ratha Yatra have not been organized for decades. The temple now only hosts Kalyanam and Brahmotsavams within its premises. Allegations of encroachment led to a decision to construct a commercial complex at the temple’s foothill.
The lack of proper management and neglect of temple traditions are evident in the Chennakesava Swamy temple. The authorities need to address these issues and ensure the proper preservation of temple assets and traditions for future generations.
