Bollineni Rajagopala Naidu, popularly known as B.R. Naidu, is a prominent Indian media entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the newly appointed Chairman of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Trust Board. As of 2025, Naidu has taken on this prestigious role, steering one of the world’s richest and most revered Hindu temple organizations. Born in the 1960s in Diguva Poonepalli village, Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh, B.R. Naidu’s journey from humble beginnings to a respected leader in media and temple administration is inspiring.
Early Life and Background of B.R. Naidu
B.R. Naidu was born into a modest Hindu family in the rural village of Diguva Poonepalli, Penumuru mandal, Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh. His father, Muniswamy Naidu, and mother, Lakshmi Naidu, raised him as the youngest of six siblings. Growing up in an agricultural household, Naidu developed a strong work ethic and a deep connection to his cultural roots. His early exposure to the traditions of Sanatana Dharma would later influence his commitment to preserving Hindu heritage.
Details about Naidu’s formal education remain limited, but his sharp business acumen and leadership skills became evident early on. After completing his schooling in Andhra Pradesh, he ventured into the professional world, laying the foundation for a remarkable career. His ties to Chittoor district, the same region as Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, also shaped his political and social affiliations.
Career Beginnings: From BHEL to Entrepreneurship
B.R. Naidu’s professional journey began with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), where he served as the General Secretary of the employees’ union, representing over 12,000 workers. This role honed his leadership abilities and introduced him to grassroots advocacy. During his tenure at BHEL, he also took on the position of Culture Secretary, showcasing his interest in community welfare and organizational development.
Naidu’s entrepreneurial spirit soon led him to explore opportunities beyond BHEL. In the 1980s, he aligned himself with the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and participated in the Prajaswamya Punaruddharana movement, a campaign supporting TDP founder N.T. Rama Rao. This political involvement strengthened his ties with the TDP, a connection that would prove instrumental in his later achievements.
Leaving BHEL behind, Naidu ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing successful businesses in travel, FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods), and media. His most notable achievement came with the founding of TV5, a leading Telugu news channel that has become a household name in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. As the Chairman of TV5, Naidu built a media empire that emphasized independent journalism and cultural preservation, earning him recognition as a media baron.
Rise to Prominence: TV5 and Philanthropy
TV5, under B.R. Naidu’s leadership, emerged as a powerful platform for regional news and entertainment. Launched to cater to Telugu-speaking audiences, the channel gained popularity for its unbiased reporting and focus on local issues. Naidu’s vision for TV5 extended beyond profit; he aimed to uphold Hindu culture and provide a voice for the common people. His success in the media industry contributed significantly to his estimated net worth of approximately $10 million as of 2024.
Beyond his business ventures, Naidu is widely respected for his philanthropic efforts. He has supported initiatives in education, healthcare, and social welfare, particularly in Andhra Pradesh. His commitment to giving back to society aligns with his role as a custodian of Hindu traditions, a quality that made him a fitting candidate for the TTD Chairman position.
Appointment as TTD Chairman: A New Chapter
On October 30, 2024, the Andhra Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, appointed B.R. Naidu as the Chairman of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Trust Board. He officially took oath on November 6, 2024, at the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala, becoming the 54th Chairman in the organization’s history. The appointment came after months of speculation and lobbying, reflecting Naidu’s stature and influence within the TDP-led coalition.
The TTD, which manages the Sri Venkateswara Temple—one of the world’s wealthiest and most visited religious sites—requires a leader with administrative expertise and devotion. Naidu’s selection was praised by many, including TDP supporters, who saw him as a “son of the soil” capable of restoring the temple’s sanctity. His board comprises 24 members, including notable figures like Suchitra Ella (Managing Director of Bharat Biotech), MLAs Jyothula Nehru, Vemireddy Prashanthi Reddy, and M.S. Raju, and representatives from Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.
Vision for TTD: Hindu-Only Staff Policy and Reforms
Upon assuming office, B.R. Naidu outlined a bold vision for the TTD, emphasizing the need to preserve the temple’s Hindu identity. One of his first announcements was a push for a Hindu-only staff policy at Tirumala. “Everyone who works at Tirumala should be a Hindu. That would be my first effort,” Naidu stated in a media address on October 31, 2024. He plans to collaborate with the Andhra Pradesh government to explore options like transferring non-Hindu employees to other departments or offering voluntary retirement schemes (VRS).
Naidu’s stance stems from his belief that Tirumala, a sacred site for millions of devotees, must reflect Hindu values in its operations. He has also vowed to address past mismanagement, particularly the controversy over alleged adulteration of ghee used in Tirupati laddus during the previous YSR Congress Party regime. Naidu aims to enhance transparency, streamline darshan access, and improve infrastructure to ensure a seamless experience for pilgrims.
Personal Life: Family and Values
B.R. Naidu is a private individual when it comes to his personal life. He is married to Lakshmi Naidu, named after his mother, and together they have built a family rooted in traditional values. While specific details about his children or personal assets are not widely publicized, Naidu’s humble origins and devotion to Lord Venkateswara remain central to his identity. He has shared that he avoided visiting Tirumala for five years due to concerns over its administration but resumed regular visits after taking on the Chairman role.
Now residing in Hyderabad, Naidu maintains strong ties to his native Chittoor district. His gratitude toward Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, and HRD Minister Nara Lokesh reflects his loyalty to the TDP and its leadership.
Controversies and Criticism
Naidu’s appointment was not without controversy. Critics, including some YSR Congress Party supporters, questioned his suitability due to past adult content aired on TV5. TDP leaders, such as spokesperson P. Sapthagiri Prasad, dismissed these claims as “character assassination” attempts, defending Naidu’s integrity and contributions. The laddu adulteration row, which preceded his tenure, also placed additional scrutiny on the TTD’s leadership, though Naidu has distanced himself from past administrative lapses.
Net Worth and Legacy
As of 2024, B.R. Naidu’s net worth is estimated at around $10 million, amassed through his media ventures and other businesses. However, his legacy extends beyond wealth. As TTD Chairman, he is tasked with overseeing an organization that generates billions in revenue and serves millions of devotees annually. His leadership will likely shape the temple’s future for years to come.
Conclusion: B.R. Naidu’s Impact as TTD Chairman
B.R. Naidu’s journey from a rural village in Andhra Pradesh to the helm of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams is a testament to his resilience, vision, and dedication.
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