The International Temples Convention & Expo (ITCX) 2025, the world’s largest gathering dedicated to temple heritage and management, commenced with grandeur in Tirupati on 17 February. The opening ceremony at Asha Convention Center saw an assembly of dignitaries, spiritual leaders, and thousands of devotees, all gathered to reinforce the role of temples in India’s cultural, social, and economic fabric.
A key highlight of the event was the presence of three Chief Ministers—Andhra Pradesh’s Chandrababu Naidu, Maharashtra’s Devendra Fadnavis, and Goa’s Pramod Sawant—who shared the stage in a show of unity and commitment to temple conservation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended his support through a special message, lauding the event as an embodiment of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—the ancient Indian philosophy of global unity.
A Grand Opening with Spiritual Fervour
The convention began on an auspicious note with the resonating beats of Yuva Naad Dhol Tasha, a traditional musical performance by young artists from Navi Mumbai, setting the stage for an evening of cultural pride and devotion. The chanting of ‘Shri Hari Govinda’ filled the air, reinforcing the deep-rooted spiritual traditions of Maharashtra.
A solemn Ganesh Sthapana ceremony was performed, accompanied by Ashirvachana and the Ganpati Atharva Shirsham, marking the formal commencement of the three-day event. The dignitaries participated in the Deep Prajwalam, or ceremonial lighting of the lamp, signifying the spread of knowledge and enlightenment.
Prime Minister Modi, in his written message, emphasised the importance of ITCX 2025 in bringing together temple stakeholders from diverse backgrounds—including Hindu, Jain, Buddhist, and Sikh communities—to share knowledge and best practices. He commended the efforts of Temple Connect in documenting and digitising India’s vast temple heritage, stating, “The 21st century belongs to knowledge-driven societies. The initiative to promote temple governance, security, and financial management holds immense significance.”
Role of Temples in Nation-Building
Shri Prasad Lad, Chairman of ITCX and Chief Whip of Maharashtra Legislative Council, underscored the economic significance of temples in India. Quoting scriptures, he said, “Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah—if we protect dharma, then dharma will protect us.” He highlighted that India’s temple economy is valued at nearly ₹5.5 to ₹6 lakh crore and suggested that integrating temple revenues into national economic strategies could contribute significantly to social welfare and nation-building.
Shri Giresh Kulkarni, Founder of ITCX and Temple Connect, reflected on the growing stature of the convention, stating, “The overwhelming response from dignitaries and stakeholders reaffirms the necessity of this platform. Hosting ITCX 2025 in Tirupati is a strategic move, amplifying our mission to unite temple communities globally.”
Day 2 of the convention will delve into modern innovations for temple management, including the Smart Temples Mission, technology-driven security measures, and strategies to strengthen temple-based economies. Eminent figures like Vishva Hindu Parishad’s General Secretary Shri Milind Parande, Tamil Nadu BJP State President Shri K. Annamalai, and ISKCON India’s Communications Director Shri Yudhishtir Govinda Dasji are expected to share insights on these key themes.
CMs Emphasise Cultural and Economic Significance of Temples
In a powerful address, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Chandrababu Naidu linked temple preservation with technological advancement and economic growth. “India is leading in AI adoption, with a 65% utilisation rate compared to the global average of 31%. By 2029, we will be the world’s third-largest economy, and by 2047, Indians globally will be among the most influential communities. Serving both God and humanity is our dharma,” he said.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis praised ITCX 2025 for harnessing temples’ economic potential, noting that 55% of Indian citizens prefer spiritual tourism. He emphasised the convention’s significance, especially as it coincides with the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar, a revered temple patron. “Temple Connect has united temples under the Sanatana Dharma, ensuring that they become centres of community and equality,” he said.
Goa Chief Minister Shri Pramod Sawant reflected on historical efforts to preserve temple culture. He highlighted how Hindu rulers, especially Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, played a crucial role in rebuilding temples despite foreign invasions. “Every state may have a different language and culture, but we are all connected through our temples,” he said, drawing parallels between ITCX 2025 in Tirupati and the ongoing Kumbh Mela in the north.
Vision for Future of Temple Management
Shri Ashish Shelar, Maharashtra’s Minister of Cultural Affairs, stressed the role of temples in spiritual liberation, referencing the Navnath saints who purified and preserved sacred spaces. “ITCX is historic because it follows the Navnath Marg—reviving our temples in an organised manner,” he said.
RSS Sah-Sarkaryavah Shri C R Mukunda ji underscored the need for financial and administrative support for smaller temples. “While large temple institutions have resources, thousands of village temples struggle with funding and governance. Larger temples like Tirupati must extend support to preserve our Sanatani faith,” he urged.
Paving Way for Global Temple Movement
ITCX 2025 is not merely an exhibition but a movement to redefine temple governance, sustainability, and financial management. With spiritual tourism on the rise, temples hold immense potential as socio-economic hubs that drive employment, education, and charitable activities.
As the convention progresses, discussions will focus on leveraging modern technology for temple security, streamlining donation systems through fintech solutions, and enhancing pilgrimage experiences through AI-driven crowd management. The gathering in Tirupati symbolises a broader vision—one that envisions temples not just as places of worship, but as pillars of India’s cultural and economic renaissance.
With leaders, administrators, and devotees uniting under one roof, ITCX 2025 is set to carve a new path for temples worldwide, ensuring that their legacy endures for generations to come.
