Serious allegations of mismanagement and financial irregularities have surfaced at the Draksharamam Bhimeshwara Temple, a revered shrine known as Dakshina Kashi. Devotees have lodged complaints against temple officials, demanding an inquiry into the irregularities and negligence in temple rituals and administration.
The temple’s Executive Officer (EO), Durga Bhavani, and clerk, Venkanna Babu, are facing severe criticism over alleged misconduct. Devotees claim that essential daily rituals, such as the offering of 20 liters of cow’s milk to Lord Bhimeshwara, have been discontinued, violating the instructions of the Kanchi Peetham Gurus. A devotee, Akula Siva, has raised concerns over the disappearance of the milk supply from temple-owned cows, urging authorities to investigate.
Additionally, allegations have emerged that key offerings, including Pulihora, Perugannam, Gudannam, and Panchabhaksha Paramanam, are not being provided to the deity as required. It is also alleged that unauthorized PRC implementations have resulted in large sums being withdrawn directly from the EO without proper audits.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the reinstatement of three employees—Mani Deepu, Srinivas, and Surya (Dudoor)—who were previously removed for participating in the YCP election campaign. Reports suggest that they have been rehired and are receiving salaries without proper authorization from the Endowments Commissioner.
Financial mismanagement is another major concern. It is alleged that a ₹30 lakh donation intended for temple annadanam (food donation) was forcibly deposited in the hundi, only to be later misappropriated under false expenses. Devotees are also demanding an investigation into alleged misuse of funds from the Dasara festival, where lakhs of rupees were reportedly siphoned off.
Further, there are claims that ₹25 lakh meant for priests' Maha Nivedana payments over the last five months remains unpaid. Irregularities in annadanam (food donations) and unauthorized promotions of certain employees have also been flagged.
One of the key figures in the controversy is Venkanna Babu, who allegedly misused political influence to rise through the ranks. Originally joining as an NMR contract employee with a daily wage of ₹50, he gradually obtained higher positions without proper conversion processes. By 2019, he was promoted to Junior Assistant, allegedly violating Endowments Department regulations. Despite being deputed to Draksharamam from Ainavilli, reports suggest he continues to stay at the temple beyond his authorized term, falsely claiming the title of Superintendent.
Amidst these allegations, devotees are urging the Endowments Department and the state government to conduct a thorough inquiry and take strict action to restore the sanctity and integrity of Draksharamam Bhimeshwara Temple.
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