Tirupati Balaji temple launches world's first gold, silver ATMs for Lord Venkateswara pendants: 5 things to know

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has introduced the world’s first Gold and Silver Pendant ATMs at the sacred Tirumala temple. The machines dispense pendants embossed with Lord Venkateswara and Goddess Lakshmi Devi, by merging devotion with technology. Now, Indian billionaire and RPG Enterprises Chairman, Harsh Goenka shared the viral video on X.

Unlike commercial gold ATMs in the UAE, these feature AI-enabled interfaces similar to banking ATMs, requiring minimal additional steps. The initiative, led by TTD executive officer (EO) J Shyamala Rao, is part of TTD’s digital transformation. Harsh Goenka shared the video along with a caption, “Silver and gold ATM with dynamic price mechanism at Tirupati!”

How to use the machines?

The video begins with a man standing in front of the silver-gold ATM, where he can see the real-time prices of gold and silver on the screen. He clicked on “Click to buy gold and silver” and then selected the language and also typed in his mobile number. Then he was given the option to buy gold or silver. He chose silver and then chose the required grams. The machine offers an option of 2g, 5g, and 10g variants, catering to diverse preferences and budgets. He opted to buy 10 gm silver and then the payment page opened where he had the option to buy the silver with credit card, debit card or make the transaction via UPI. He chose the latter and on the screen, he was shown the breakdown of the price, the GST levied and other amount charges. He proceeded to make the payment by scanning the QR code and the dispenser tray came out with a silver pendant of 10 grams in a packaging.

Here are 5 things you must know about this innovative ATM

1. AI-Enabled Interface

Much like traditional banking ATMs, these machines are equipped with Artificial Intelligence (AI) interfaces, streamlining operations with minimal user interaction.

2. Variety of Options

The ATMs will dispense pendants in 2g, 5g, and 10g options, ensuring a variety of choices to suit different budgets and preferences.

3. Strategic Locations

The ATMs are set to be installed at prominent temple sites, including Tirumala Temple, Govindaraja Temple in Tirupati, and Padmavati Ammavari Temple in Tiruchanoor.

4. Donation Kiosks

Building on the success of TTD's previous innovation—Donation Kiosks that enable devotees to contribute using UPI, debit, or credit cards—this initiative aims to enhance convenience for worshippers.

5. Aligned to tradition

TTD is committed to integrating technology while upholding spiritual traditions. The introduction of these ATMs will strictly follow sacred scriptures and Agamas (ritualistic texts) to ensure the temple's sanctity remains intact.