Thrissur, 02 Nov (H.S.):The Guruvayur Devaswom has doubled rental charges for its Melpathur and Guruvayur auditoriums, raising the hourly rate from Rs 5,900, inclusive of GST, to Rs 11,800 from January 1.

The decision, taken at a recent meeting of the Devaswom managing committee, will increase the cost of staging cultural programmes at the temple town, which attracts performers from across India and abroad.

Each booking slot comprises one hour. Under the revised tariff, booking slots covering an entire day will cost Rs 1.60 lakh, substantially increasing expenses for organisers arranging extended programmes.

The auditoriums require bookings 60 days in advance, meaning applications for January programmes must be made now. Applicants must submit their requests in person. When more than one applicant seeks the same slot, allotment is decided through a draw of lots.

The increase is expected to place an additional burden on ordinary artistes and dance groups, which account for a large share of performances at the venues.

However, the Devaswom has received complaints that some people have been exploiting the booking system for financial gain. A single slot allows multiple artistes to perform, and some applicants allegedly reserve slots in advance before transferring them to others at substantially higher prices.

The revised charges will also affect individuals and organisations sponsoring Ekadasi Vilakku observances. Many traditionally organise a full day of cultural performances as part of their offerings, making auditorium rentals a significant component of their expenditure.

The latest revision comes about a year after the previous increase. Earlier, the charge was Rs 3,450 for a 90-minute slot, before it was revised to Rs 5,900 for an hour.

For visiting performers and organisers, the fresh increase will mean higher venue costs, alongside travel, accommodation and other expenses associated with presenting programmes in Guruvayur, particularly for groups travelling from distant locations.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman