Golden Temple - Sripuram.. near Vellore, Chennai
Mahalakshmi Temple, 600 Crores of budget, 100 acres of land, located @ Sripuram, near Vellore - 125 kms from chennai, 400 goldsmiths and copper smiths, crafts men from Tirumala tirupati devastanams, 6 years of construction time, Surrounded by mountains and lush scenic beauty... Temple covering 55,000 sq. ft. Area..
Construction lead by "Amma"... (thats what they say!!) Isnt it a lot for a temple ?? People feel a lot of poverty would have been removed with all this money ?? no wonder... Its a lot for a temple, and no-wonder it will make to the most visited-crowded place soon !!
39 comments:
People really waste too much money on the name of God. I feel proud that we do have people who think that this is not good. If we'd have utilized this money, it could have been better for the ppl who don't have food and shelter. So Sad...
"we'd have utilized this money, it could have been better for the ppl "; "People feel a lot of poverty would have been removed with all this money ?? " If the Cheran, Cholan, Pandians, Pallavas thought the above way then would we have had the temples and monuments.
But let us look into it from another angle.
1. welfare of people, poverty alleviation, health improvement etc is a very intense and prolonged effort which requires not 300 but thousands of crores. Apart from the money it also requires dedication, a strong political will, and above all support from the people.If it should occur at country level defenitely it cannot be done by small or medium sized organization and with 300 crores.It is a Government subject and has to done be the Govt.May be NGO's and corporates an create role models but not implement throughout the country.
We are leaving in time when political parties distribute free Color TV, free 10 kg rice per month, free higher education (even if you study in pvt medical etc colleges the Govt. of pondicherry will pay tuition fee for the entire course i.e from 2 lakhs to 10 lakhs).Dole amount if one is unemployed. . All this to secure vote bank.
Govt. will not build temples only such organisations can do.
PLEASE realise both the Govt. and public together is responsible, for such large scale social work, Corporates for all materialisitic development. Who will carter to Spiritual development?
@murukha
1+1=2... 2+2=4... 4+4=8... i agree that to eradicate the poverty, its gonna be a challenge.. but to erase a few portions of it (be it just 1% or 5%)... i guess the money was really a lot.. Atleast with that money a lot of poverty might have been chased atleast in chennai, if not in india... But yes, its debatable true.
@yogesh
Completely agree with you on your thoughts...
I am from vellore as well. When I had called up my brother yesterday (from Ozz), he said he was in the golden temple. I thought Amristar? "no no. google for 'golden temple vellore'", he said and I landed up in your site. I share the same notion as you, "wat a freaking waste of money.. and people talk about poverty in India". The religious ones have a counter arguement saying, "Amma has built hospital and school and college and soooooooo on". These guys in India, particularly the religious ones, think they are obliged to and have to support watever the priestly people say.
Cant argue much! Amma may poke my eye!
Lax
l.kannappan@adfa.edu.au
When I heard about the amount spent for this temple, the first thought that came to mind was that the money could have been utilised for noble causes than on a temple.
But, my visit to the temple on 2nd Sep. has changed my opinion. The charitable activities "amma" is already associated with and the most valuable messages the temple conveys to the visitors is uncomparable. The temple has a message for everyone whether a devotee or an athies.
If one feels The Tajmahal as waste of money, I do agree because it has nothing to convey than Shahzahan's LOVE for Mumtaz Begum.
But, this temple, I am sure, will transform many people into "Human beings with values for Service" to Mankind and thus, every paisa spent on this is much more worth than its original value.
TIMES SHALL PROVE THIS TO ALL.
Guys, I read all the comments... Please don't see this to be a waste of money. Yeah 600 cr or whatever be the money that is spent looks freaking high. But you will have to sit back and think what good it is going to do.
The whole landscape of Vellore is going to change. Lots of business is going to mushroom, tourism is going to increase. For all you might know this could be the next big thing next to tirupathi.
Wait wait... don't come to conclusion that I am an ardunt fan or an insider who is trying to market. But just think it is going to improve the lifestyle of so many people in and around vellore. I don't know how good this person/trust is and how much of revenue/collection that is getting generated would be channelised to public welfare.
It is going to probably do more good and definitly that would be "n" times 600 cr and that is going to be a continuous thing and not just one time.
Don't think I am talking business here, I too believe in god. And when it comes to argument, I think you will have to think little different and not come to just "hunch" believe or make a statement without thinking too much into the future.
Think about it....
And I am sure all you guys who have said it is a waste of money, blah blah would definitly go back home and talk about this to all your near 'n' dear...
Dear All,
Assume that this temple is not built, will anyone of be aware of the money a institution or a person be having to this magnitude. Even assuming that it is a waste, think about the amount of employment it has given so many skilled workers and more importantly, the name Vellore is getting these days. Previously Vellore was famous only for SMC and Central Jail.
If we all think it is waste of money, why are we allowing people to build palacial houses when a normal tile house will do. If it is ones personal money, he/she is free to do what he wants. If it has been a Government/Public money, then I can understand.
Why then we are accepting when Government is giving tax/concessions benefits to a particular community in India to go to their main worship place outside of india, when their own majority is not given to visit such places within India?
I would request you guys to be think big and wise rather than wasting time like this.
We can't expect the government do for spiritual cause, because we have already have the poverty as the burning cause for government to solve. We should leave it to the people, it is peoples money if required he can help the needy or invest in temple. We have no right to even debate on some ones money.
I like to add one more point we you build a temple of this size /splendor , definitely one day or the other day it will become a biggest tourist attraction. Because of this lot of people will get the self employment from tourist industry and will eradicate poverty at least in that town.
I visited the temple recently and I was awestruck bu its sheer beauty. It will attract lakhs of people in the coming days which will help busniness people around vellore. It will improve activities around vellore. but from the spiritual point of view it spells doom as all spiritual people are trying to attain spiritual peace by renouncing their bond with materialistic thoughts. I think one can pray to god even when the god is simple without any beautification and even if the god is not sorrounded by millions. The place will become just a beautiful "park", as claimed by the trust itself, and nothing more.
hi guys even im also from vellore only ... also near to that golden temple (just 3 km) . I agree your comments on that . this is too much. in that so much money was spent . in that money ...if he built a college giving free of education will be useful for poor students ..bye
After reading all the comments (uhmmm spent almost 30 mins), what I understand is that the purpose of the temple is almost achieved. I'm not sure how many people have really read the papers where in the person who had built said that, the beautification is just to attract people and it did its work. It is attracting many direct and indirect (online) visitors. It is a religious cause and LET IT BE. Will anyone dare to ask the questions asked against this temple about any other religion. Why can't they just post those comments with so called hifi English? How many people who had left comments in this web site had donated money for a social cause (education, welfare bla bla bla....!) Well, I'm qualified to write this line as I had and I'm doing my part for the society (leave off the details). Just go see and enjoy and have some peace of mind, if you can! All the Best.
Anonymouse:
BTW, i do donate money for charity ! I am sure a lot of people in this world are also doing the same.. may not be directly in terms of money but in many other ways like giving away food, helping the disabled, lot more..
Hey Guys, Just I have this to tell. Ever wondered where the crores of money in most big temples go, they go to the government, that means the Money Donated by the people who visit temples also go to all other people of all other religions, simple. But that happens only with money from temples, not any other religious places of worship, think this through, think hard, and u will come to see the matter of FACT, and the country u live in.
God alone can justify on this man made blunder....the wealth involved can be utilised to improve some of the high priority infrastructure........
Government must pass bills to control the expenses made in the name of spirituality, Marraige ....and utilize it for some essential things like Hygenic and Nutrisious Food, Clean Air, Good Water, Life saving Medicines, Electricity for houses, Vehicles....etc.,
I don't think GOD demands for an luxurious life...
You all talking about 600 Crores money wasted in constructing a temple. But as you all could see in the historical times our Kings spent whole lot of money and manpower in constructing huge temples and now we are treating those temples as historical marvelous and its been appreciated by many archeologists thoughout the world as wonders. But in the recent days these kind of temple construction never happens at this magnitude. I am seeing this would be a great inititative for our childrens to talk about how we are discussing about the present historical temples.
Its just my loud thinking that the money is not wasted here its been rotated for helping poor by way of direct and indirect employment and self employment. If he is constructing a college or hospital how long he can give free education and free treatment without any inflow of money.
More over if nobody makes initiatives like this then who will do it and how we can enjoy those beautiful temple, excellent ambience and marvelous landscapes.
When millions start to believe a man can be a God and Almighty, these things would also happens.
Only the beiever is the believed and the deceiver the deceived.
hi guys,
you people are thinking sripuram is waste of money but my 10 yrs experience in that temple is unimaginable.this temple is the place to cultivate our human character to do good thing for others.
what is the difference btn animals and human?
if we compare the animals the same process is happening to the humans too from birth to death.But only one thing is differ from animals is to serve others.
in amma's service
saravanan
Arun and Yogesh, I cannot even begin to explain how wrong you both are! "Wasting money on a temple rather than using it for poor people". First off, how the hell do u know that money isn't going to the poor AS WELL as to a religious institution? People DONATED this money to a temple which meant they want it to go for a cause that could teach people more.
Secondly, you point your finger at a temple? Sheesh, how atheist can you get? So what if you do not believe in God, doesn't mean the rest of the world does not. They are probably thrilled at the fact that there's this fantastic temple they can go visit and enjoy. (and I'd like to add, that you 2 haven't been there, so don't talk) And I think you're amplifying the whole money issue. Look at all the game shows and reality shows and general large MONEY-MAKING industries that do not even contribute in ANY way to the unfortunate? IE, Amazing Race! Come on, $1 Million dollars per season to a couple who go gallavanting around the world all expenses paid for! How come that money isn't going to help the world? At least this temple is contributing in some way to alot of people. Over a billion people in India and I'm sure ALOT of them are very religious. So you need to set your argument straight and realize there's alot more other things that could change the world rather than targeting ONE temple. Also mind you, the organization that built this temple did ALOT for the needy! You couldn't even imagine the amount of money and necessities they gathered to provide for the Tsunami victims. Don't argue if you haven't done your research buddies! Peace!
~ G:
I am rolling on the floor with laughter seeing your response :) You are a great writer, i agree but you imagine beyond the limits too...
I am one among you... i am equally religious, equally worried about the culture of our country, equally worried about the poor. You got me totally wrong !
Well you can be equally what you want, but don't go dissing the temple. Just because it took a lot of money to build it does not mean it is depriving the poor. Plus I restate myself.. OTHER devotees paid for the temple so don't find faults with it. The temple is a magnificant, extremely beautiful temple and hopefully your mind will change when you see it yourself.
Every country spends money on such activities. Those who talk about the lavishness - let them begin being vocal about the multi-millions of public money that our politicians stash away without providing even basic amenities - look at our roads, drinking water, electricity, public libraries, govt. offices; as also the lowliest corp. councilor's many palatial villas, moneys and golds. This 300cr is one day pocket money for your ministers! And, stop bashing the priestly clan (some of you have done) for everything incl. rains in Timbuktu. They're the poorest of the poors, and atleast don't harm you like the goondas and thugs who've become ministers and mayors! If Mata, Sai Baba or Vellore Amma can do social service in the name of religion, so be it. However, I still prefer the kinds of Ramakrishna Missions which do great service, without self proclamations or individual worships.
hi guys iam vijaya from usa i saw this temple in net and i came to know that it costs some infinite money but anyway after visiting that it may definitly change people lives.I sure man should know his inner soul purpose and change the world.He should completely get rid from this materialistic things.but the main thing is with this every man can serve poeple with this motivation.
hi guys iam vijaya from usa i saw this temple in net and i came to know that it costs some infinite money but anyway after visiting that it may definitly change people lives.I sure man should know his inner soul purpose and change the world.He should completely get rid from this materialistic things.but the main thing is with this every man can serve poeple with this motivation.
Religion is the opium of the masses. 300 crores is not going to rid India of poverty anyway.So, stop complaining about wasting money on religion. If we start thinking like that then we will never have anything nice or good in a developing country.If this temple will bring a little peace to the thousands of devotees that visit it everyday..then there is some good in it.If nothing else..consider it as art for arts sake. Enjoy it like you would a beautiful piece of art work.
I have been going through all the blogs. Quite interesting. Now I am curious about this temple. I am going to visit this place tomorrow.
I believe it is really good to have such Temple. Poverty can never be removed i think u all agree to this.What these people can do is spread a helping hand to those who require it desperately through the money they gain. and I am sure they will gain a huge amount from this temple where they invested 600 Crores.
Hi,
No Comments in the name of God,The person who constructed didn't think the way you all think of helping the people.
I am from vellore, i also heard that when Chief minister visited Sripuram 2 months back,the temple swamiji has paid around 50 -100 crore to tamilnadu Chief minister for developing the sripuram Area.
This shows corruption too.
Guys,
Doyou guys know how much budget govt is allocating for some religion people to visit their religious site outside india? WHose moeny is that? Its our money, from all community, across the religion, then why one particular community should enjoy benifit?
I am not trying to debate her if this is waste or not. All i want to highlight is, any development, will have to oppositon for some reason. Be it a golden temple or a commercial place, only time will tell.
Also, if you think all money SHOULD ONLY be used for eradicating poverty, then I think we wnt be sitting here and typing this. Do you know how much you spend for maintaing these sites, internet cost etc etc...
Hi all,
I visited the Golden Temple yesterday.
Informations i got.
1. 7 Tonne of gold had been used for building this temple.
2. 300 Acres of land acquisition had taken place.
3. A new place called SriPuram was Introduced for this temple.
4. Seperate Guest Houses for vistors, VIP's and NRI's had been built.
5. No entry fees are collected. One Special entry for Rs.250 is there but that is for them who need it and other things are free.
6. No hundi...Only donations are accepted and for that you will be getting the reciept for that.
7. No poojas or offerings to be made to god.
8. Nearly 700cr. Spent for this spiritual project.
9. No cellphones or cameras allowed inside the temple. I f you have those u need to keep them on the safe lockers available there for a minimal amount.
10. For free darshan you will be turned near the entrance of the mandapam and for Rs.250 Ticket ypu can go near the sannadhi and not inside it.
11. There is a pond around the mandapam. People are throwing money onto that (No idea for what it is Done).
PEOPLE COMING HERE ARE NOT COMING FOR THE SAKE OF THE WORSHIP AND IT IS A MERE ENTERTAINMENT, BUILT ON THE BUSINESS MOTIVE.THE GOD LOSES ITS POWER COZ OF THE ENVIRONMENT.
Questions:
1. Why was so much money used to built this temple.
2. Why was gold used and not any other metals.
3. Where did the money came from.
4. Why was vellore chosed.
5. Are they really gold. If so was it verified.
6. If it is not gold then where did the money went that was collected for building this temple?
7. Is this a place for hiding the black money in the name of Trust.
8.
Guys, two things.
a) It is really good to see that there are so many views and we as a nation are getting more and more expressive.
b) Why look at this whole venture only from a religious angle? There are crores of money spent on movies with religious themes. Crores spent on political parties riding on religion. For those of you who cannot accept this as a religious venture look at it as a venture to develop tourism! If not for this temple Vellore would not be such a hot topic!
I just visited this temple on my way from Tirupathi. It looks great, Only a gifted / chosen person can build a temple like this. I am not sure how old is AMMA. Looks young in the pictures.The message he is trying to convey is very clear, easily understandable. But I did not get that feeling "devotional state of mind" here that I felt in other temples.
iam jagan here /
commented on Golden temple money spend nearly 600 crs
sri om namo naryani ammam
.if this mony can used for poverty all bla lba lbal .
this is an marvel wat ammmam had done in creating a beautiful golden temple with peace .
if this mony we want to talk much then talk about block money with one person itself having 1000 crs plus ,
and each different politcal parties all ....... because of them we in india are sufering
.
this temple is marvels in near future history .....
comment for .........
yogesh all members
This money is not a waste /
public money is wasted by politcal
see the marvels temple view created ...
their is no need of commenting on one good project golden temple .
better we can start working on green revoulation
if you think money is waste .
then all the temples in tamil nadu in thos period the king thaout we would not be such spirtual country in world
All ye guys who think it is all a waste of money,remember this is not a waste. This temple will attract lot of tourists and should give a big boost to local economy . And constructing temples is not a waste of money . It ceryainly helps people to reaffirm and consolidate their faith and uplift spiritually. Spiritual richness matters and even poor people when they are spiritually centered are able to lead a happy life far better than rich people, and they detest any sort of charity from others.So let us keep the two seperate.Whoever was inspired to build this temple, accomplished this and deserves recognition and public at large would certainly visit this temple too .
hi friends
I may be harsh in telling my views.yes for those who are speaking about the eradication of poverty or providing a better healthcare inspite of building such a marvellous wonder.why cant you eradicate poverty or provide better healthcare to the people despite throwing stone on others.First of all you should realise that how much of effort it is required to mobilize the foreign funds which will increase our forex reserves that is helping our country .Moreover we should appreciate sakthi Amma for the efforts at an age of 32 years for doing wonders.Why you folks were unable to mobilize 600 crore of funds .Think once with open mind .From a long-term perspective the benefits that is going to accrue to the society is increased tourism revenues,increased forex reserves ,increase in the volume of business in and around vellore ,increase in employment,a place for vellore in the history once again,better infrastructure around thirumalaikodi which once was a small village .I can give lot more points which are endless.But the point Im driving here is Human mind is a clutter which wont cherish others success unless you have succeeded in your life.I Wish everyone for ur success and be loveable.The final word is its ALL in the mind in the form of thoughts.Why cant you channelise your thoughts in a positive manner and achieve such goals to serve the society like sakthi amma .When he can do this everyone can do?God is common for all.u too can see god in you .So achieve great things in life and eradicate the poverty and provide better healthcare for the society as you people wished. I have started harsh at my first line but i am ending it
WITH LOVE
DR.SUGUMAR DHARMARAJU
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