TTD Supporting Dharmagiri Veda Vijnana Peetham to Groom Future Archakas
The peetham traces its origins to a Veda Pathashala established in 1884 under Mahant Prayag Das
TIRUPATI: As demand for trained archakas and Vedic scholars is continuing, the Sri Venkateswara Veda Vijnana Peetham at Dharmagiri in Tirumala is grooming 374 students across 17 traditional disciplines with support from the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).
The Dharmagiri Peetham functions as a centre for Vedic, Agama and Smartha learning, preparing students for temple rituals, priesthood duties, and scriptural procedures followed under different traditions.
The peetham traces its origins to a Veda Pathashala established in 1884 under Mahant Prayag Das. Additional streams in Agamas, priesthood, and Shastras have been introduced over time. In 1992, the institution permanently shifted to Dharmagiri as Sri Venkateswara Veda Vijnana Peetham. Since then, it has developed into a residential campus focused on preserving traditional knowledge through systematic teaching.
At present, the Dharmagiri Peetham runs 17 specialised branches grouped under four streams. Seven branches fall under Vedic studies, five under Agama disciplines, four under Smartha studies and one under Divya Prabandham covering the 4,000 pasurams of the Alwars. The curriculum includes memorisation, recitation, interpretation, and practical training required for temple rituals and traditional ceremonies.
Of the 374 students currently enrolled, 140 are pursuing Vedic courses, 177 are studying Prabandha and Agama streams, and 57 are in Smartha studies. A team of 43 scholars imparts training. Teaching follows the gurukula method, combining daily recitation, explanation, supervised practice, and participation in rituals to ensure practical exposure.
Students are provided residential facilities within the campus. The hostel has capacity for 540 students and includes basic amenities, such as continuous water supply and hot water. Nutritious meals are served daily. and students are supplied clothing, books and essential items. Healthcare services are provided through Ashwini Hospital, with referrals to SVIMS and BIRRD hospitals in Tirupati when required.
TTD provides financial incentives to support students after completion of their courses. Vedic students receive a deposit of ₹3 lakh, while students from other streams receive ₹1 lakh. The amount is handed over to the students along with their certificates.
The daily routine follows traditional practices, beginning with Sandhyavandanam and Agnikaryam, followed by classes and recitation. Physical activity and evening study sessions are also part of the schedule. Periodic tests and interactions with scholars are held to review progress.
Officials said the Dharmagiri institution will continue training archakas and Vedic scholars, while preserving traditional learning for future generations.
