Chilkur Balaji Temple Chief Priest Dr. M.V. Soundararajan Passes Away at 90: Telangana Mourns a Spiritual Icon

Hyderabad, Telangana – February 27, 2026

The revered former chief priest and hereditary trustee of Chilkur Balaji Temple, Dr. M.V. Soundararajan, passed away on February 27, 2026, at the age of 90 due to age-related ailments. Fondly known among devotees as a guardian of faith and tradition, he breathed his last at his residence in Chilkur, near Hyderabad. His demise marks the end of an era for one of Telangana’s most spiritually significant temples, popularly known worldwide as the “Visa Balaji Temple.”

Chilkur Balaji Temple – A Global Faith Destination for NRIs

Located on the outskirts of Hyderabad, the Chilkur Balaji Temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara (Balaji). It attracts millions of devotees annually, including a large number of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), IT professionals, and students seeking blessings for:

• US, UK, Canada, and Australia visas
• Overseas job opportunities
• Higher education abroad
• Career growth and prosperity

The temple is renowned for its unique tradition—devotees make 11 pradakshinas (circumambulations) while making a wish and 108 pradakshinas upon fulfillment. Unlike many major temples, Chilkur Balaji does not accept VIP privileges or hundi donations, reinforcing equality and simplicity in worship.

Dr. M.V. Soundararajan: Scholar, Reformer, and Spiritual Leader

Dr. Soundararajan was not only a respected priest but also a distinguished academic and social reformer. His educational credentials included:

• M.Com and LLB degrees
• PhD in Commerce
• Former Professor and Registrar at Osmania University

His rare blend of scholarship and spirituality earned him recognition beyond temple walls. He actively advocated for temple autonomy and Hindu heritage preservation as convenor of the Temples Protection Movement. Under his stewardship, Chilkur Balaji Temple gained international recognition among the Indian diaspora, especially NRIs who viewed the temple as a spiritual gateway before embarking on global journeys.

Leadership Legacy Continues

The temple’s spiritual responsibilities are now carried forward by his son, C.S. Rangarajan, who serves as the current head priest (archaka). The family’s multi-generational service to Lord Balaji remains deeply rooted in tradition and Vedic practices.

Tributes from Political and Spiritual Leaders

Condolences have poured in from leaders across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed profound grief and praised Dr. Soundararajan’s lifelong dedication to spirituality and society. Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy also conveyed heartfelt sympathies, remembering his selfless service to devotees and temple traditions.

Devotees worldwide, particularly from the NRI community, have taken to social media to honor the scholar-priest who symbolized humility, integrity, and unwavering faith.

Funeral Rites and Temple Activities

Funeral rites are expected to be conducted in Chilkur/Hyderabad following Vedic traditions. The Chilkur Balaji Temple remains open for darshan, with special prayers and homages likely to be performed in his memory. Devotees planning visits from abroad are advised to follow official temple communication channels and trusted Telangana news sources for updates.

End of an Era for the Global Devotee Community

Dr. M.V. Soundararajan’s passing marks a historic moment for Chilkur Balaji Temple and millions of devotees worldwide. His contributions to temple reform, Hindu heritage protection, and spiritual guidance for NRIs will continue to inspire future generations.

For the global Indian diaspora, especially those who sought divine blessings before pursuing dreams overseas, he will always be remembered as the spiritual pillar of Visa Balaji.

May his soul attain eternal peace and moksha. Om Shanti. Jai Shri Balaji.

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