Kanaka Durga Trust Board approves AI monitoring and smart laddu vending for Dasara 2026

The Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam Trust Board approved a range of tech-driven initiatives and infrastructure projects on Tuesday, ahead of the upcoming Dasara Navaratri celebrations. Chairman Borra Radhakrishna (Gandhi) announced tenders for AI monitoring systems, automated access control, smart prasadam vending, global cultural outreach, and several civil works.

The AI-based Devotee Monitoring System, aimed at managing the large influx of pilgrims, was awarded to Amaravathi Software Innovations Pvt. Ltd. for ₹13,39,300. This system features facial recognition, database matching for security tracking, real-time display of expected darshan queue times, and a central control dashboard. Additionally, the board approved the installation of smart laddu vending machines, or laddu ATMs, at a cost of ₹6,95,000, which will provide contact-free prasadam distribution over five years.

Other approved tech-related projects include automated vehicle and pedestrian access control, temporary CCTV networks, and LED screens for live festival coverage. The temple's international outreach expanded with the deputation of a six-member Vedic staff delegation to Australia to perform ceremonies. Civil works like stainless steel frames around the temple, rain protection covers for the Shanti Homam area, temporary queue lines, waterproof shamiyanas, and protective sheds were also sanctioned.

The temple transport operations will be managed by outsourcing 20 drivers and five conductors at an annual budget of ₹63,01,200. Temple authorities promised immediate implementation of the approved works to ensure smooth operations for the expected large number of devotees during the festival.