Former chief archaka of the renowned Chilkur Balaji temple, located about 30 kilometres from Hyderabad, Dr M.V. Soundararajan (90), passed away on Friday (February 27) at his residence in Chilkur following prolonged illness.
His son and the present Chief archaka of the temple, Rangarajan, stated that Soundararajan had been suffering from age-related health issues for the past few years. For decades, he managed the famed shrine with discipline and devotion and was widely respected for his spiritual leadership.
Apart from his priestly responsibilities, Dr Soundararajan was also known for his academic contributions. He served as a professor and Registrar at Osmania University and was recognised as a scholar, educationist and legal expert.
Paying tribute, Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy expressed deep sorrow over Soundararajan’s demise and extended heartfelt condolences to his family. The CM noted that Soundararajan played a significant role in spreading spiritual consciousness and was instrumental in bringing special recognition to the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Chilkur. He prayed for peace to the departed soul and conveyed sympathies to the bereaved family.
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, in his condolence message, said he was saddened to learn about the passing of Dr M.V. Soundararajan, Chief archaka of Sri Balaji Temple at Chilkur. He noted that through the publication Vaak, Soundararajan had worked to create awareness among devotees on protecting temples. He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to his son Rangarajan and other family members.
VHP national spokesperson Dr Shashidhar expressed deep condolences over the demise of Dr MV. Soundararajan, stating, “VHP expresses deep condolences over the demise of Chilkur Balaji Temple Chief archaka, Dr M.V. Soundararajan. Praying to Bhagwan to grant salvation to his sacred soul, and wishing that Sri Venkateswara Swamy bestow mental strength upon his family members. Dr Soundararajan was not merely a priest, but also a great scholar, educationist and legal expert. His role in bringing nationwide recognition to the Chilkur Balaji Temple is immense. A great personality who carried out an untiring legal struggle for the autonomy of temples, his death is an irreparable loss to devotees, propagators of Hindu Dharma and the spiritual sphere.”
