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The Tirumala Tirupaty Devasthanams (TTD) that runs the spiritual Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, reiterated and extended its effort to ensure that traditional Hindu weddings are made accessible and affordable to all followers. TTD has taken the lead in providing free wedding ceremonies to Hindu couples within the state under the scheme of Kalyana Vedika which has long been running and the recent priest-led services, which are now focused on sankalp (vow), samskara (sacraments), and divine blessings and not costly spending.

The scheme, which was initially launched in 2016 at the Kalyana Vedika in Papavinasanam Road, Tirumala, has already performed over 26,000 free marriages of Hindu families who were not very rich.

Couples are also provided with free end-to-end ceremonial services which include:

• Services of a qualified priest (archaka).
• Mangala vadyam (auspicious music).
• Such basic utensils as turmeric, kumkum and sacred thread (kankanam) among other ritual tools.
• Six laddus as a congratulation to the new bride and groom.
• An admission to a special free darshan (in car 300 value) and group photography.

Recently (February 2026), TTD has made the announcement that the wedding rites performed by the representatives of the Tirumala Priests Association at the Kalyana Vedika will be totally free. The families bear personal expenses such as catering, decorations or catering only where they wish to. The project will help to conserve ancient Hindu traditions and drop all financial constraints so that the couples can embark on their marriage life with the blessings of Lord Venkateswara.

Basis (Eligibility) of Kalyana Vedika scheme:

• The bride and groom have to be Hindu.
• Bride should be 18 years, groom 21 years.
• First marriages are permitted only.
• Both parents/guardians will have to be present.
• No second and love marriages without parental consent.

Application can be done online through the official site of TTD (ttdevasthanams.ap.gov.in). The documents required are age proof (birth certificate, 10th marksheet, etc.), Aadhaar, and others.

The program has swept hugely popular and thousands of couples choose sacred and simple ceremonies in Tirumala rather than grandiose ones. TTD officials emphasize it as a faith-based social outreach, which assists families to concentrate on spiritual importance rather than performance.

This action strengthens the presence of Tirupati as a pilgrimage centre as well as a contributor to the Hindu traditions and community welfare. The free weddings are a divine, dignified, and hassle-free beginning of married life to many young couples in Andhra Pradesh who struggle with the increasing wedding expenses.