Whether it is Gali Anjaneya Temple, the famous Bull temple or the Lord Narasimha Temple here, candidates and their supporters are seen waiting patiently to have a darshan, promising generous donations, if they emerge victorious.
According to the priests, the candidates consult their respective family astrologers before visiting a temple and are very particular on performing certain "poojas" on specific days as per their horoscopes.
"It is sometimes interesting to see an individual who has never paid obeisance to gods in his life time, bending backwards to please the almighty for his own selfish reason. But he does not know that he can take the people, not the gods for a ride", said a priest on condition of anonymity.
Varadarajan (name changed), the head priest of a famous temple says, "most of them (candidates) utilise their visit to the temple to interact with the public, an indirect way of campaigning".
"One can see them at their politest best with the public and also donating generously to beggars who sit on temple steps, a behaviour which can be witnessed only before polls", he said.
You’ve hit your limit of 5 free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Access to Exclusive Premium Stories Online
Over 30 behind the paywall stories daily, handpicked by our editors for subscribers


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app