Kateel: Canara Bank has installed an electronic hundi (e-hundi) facility at the renowned Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple in Kateel, enabling devotees to make offerings through digital payment modes. The e-hundi was formally inaugurated on February 6, 2026, marking another step towards promoting cashless and convenient donation systems at major religious institutions in the coastal belt.
The initiative is part of the bank’s ongoing efforts to support digital transactions and provide secure payment options for devotees visiting temples and spiritual centres. With increasing adoption of digital payments across the country, temple authorities and banks are collaborating to make offerings more transparent and accessible.
Inauguration held in presence of temple and bank officials
The e-hundi installation was inaugurated by temple administrators Sri Sanath Kumar Shetty and Sri Harinaranadasa Asranna. The ceremony was conducted in the presence of Sri Manjunath B Singai, Circle Head of Canara Bank, Mangaluru circle.
Senior bank officials, including Deputy General Managers Smt Latha Kurup and Smt L R Vijayashree, were also present on the occasion along with other officials and staff members. Temple representatives and devotees welcomed the move, stating that the digital facility would help streamline the donation process.
Officials said the system has been installed with user-friendly features so that devotees of all age groups can easily make their offerings using cards and other digital payment methods.
Facility to support digital mode of offerings
The e-hundi system allows devotees to contribute offerings through digital platforms instead of depositing cash in traditional hundis. The facility typically supports debit cards, credit cards and other approved digital payment modes, depending on configuration.
Bank officials explained that such systems reduce the need for handling large volumes of cash and improve accounting transparency. Digital records of offerings also help temple administrations maintain proper financial tracking and reporting.
The move is especially useful for devotees who may not be carrying cash but still wish to make offerings during their visit. It also supports the broader push towards secure, traceable and efficient transactions in public and religious institutions.
Sixth e-hundi installed by bank in local area
With the latest installation at Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple, Canara Bank has now set up six e-hundi units across temples and organisations in the region. The bank has been gradually expanding the initiative in coordination with religious trusts and management committees.
Officials indicated that more such installations are planned in the future based on requests from temple authorities and feasibility assessments. The programme is aligned with the bank’s digital outreach and community banking initiatives.
By introducing e-hundi systems, the bank aims to combine tradition with technology, ensuring that devotional practices continue while using modern financial tools.
Boost to transparency and convenience
Temple authorities noted that the e-hundi facility will improve both convenience for devotees and transparency in fund collection. Automated transaction records reduce manual counting and reconciliation efforts, while also minimising errors.
They added that digital offerings can help speed up accounting processes and support better utilisation of temple funds for religious, social and charitable activities run by the institution.
Devotees visiting the temple welcomed the facility, saying it reflects changing times and makes it easier for younger generations who are accustomed to digital payments.
Conclusion
The installation of the e-hundi at Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple represents a blend of faith and financial technology, offering devotees a modern, secure way to make offerings. With six such units already installed in the area, Canara Bank’s initiative is steadily expanding, encouraging cashless contributions while maintaining the sanctity of temple traditions.