Controversy Surrounding Tirupati Temple’s Laddu Prasadam
The issue of adulteration involving animal fat in the famous Laddu Prasadam of the Tirupati Temple has become a growing concern in India. As this controversy unfolds, Andhra Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has publicly expressed his regret over the situation. Kalyan has announced his decision to undertake a fasting ritual for 11 days as a means of atonement, which commenced on September 22, 2024. His fast, termed ‘Prayashchitta Deeksha’, is being held at the Sri Dashavatara Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Nambur, located in the Guntur district.
Transition to Nandini Ghee
In light of the recent controversy, it has been revealed that Nandini Ghee, a product of the Karnataka Milk Federation, is now being utilized in the preparation of the beloved Tirupati laddu. This shift follows the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD)’s decision to award the ghee supply contract to the Karnataka Milk Federation, a decision that has sparked debate and raised questions among devotees and the broader public.
Pawan Kalyan’s Social Media Messages
Before beginning his fast, Pawan Kalyan took to social media, expressing his deep personal hurt over the issue. He conveyed a heartfelt message that highlighted his feelings of betrayal and shock upon learning that the Laddu Prasadam contained animal fat. Kalyan referred to this incident as a stain on the Hindu community and lamented that he was unable to recognize this fault earlier.
I am deeply hurt on a personal level by the malicious attempts made to infuse impurity into the Prasad of Sri Tirupati Balaji Dham, the center of our culture, faith, belief, and devotion, and to be honest, I feel deeply cheated from within. Prabhu…
— Pawan Kalyan (@PawanKalyan)
September 21, 2024
Political Reactions and Accountability
The controversy has also drawn political attention, particularly aimed at the previous Jagan Mohan Reddy administration. Pawan Kalyan criticized the previous government’s policies, claiming they led to this desecration of what is considered a sacred offering. He asserted that it is crucial for the Hindu community to recognize and address such issues to maintain the sanctity of their traditions and rituals.
Demands for an Inquiry
In a related development, YS Sharmila Reddy, President of the Andhra Pradesh Congress, has approached Governor Abdul Nazir, calling for a CBI inquiry into the alleged adulteration of ghee used in the preparation of Tirumala Laddu Prasadam. Furthermore, former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has filed a petition in the Andhra Pradesh High Court, requesting the establishment of a judicial commission to investigate accusations made by Chandrababu Naidu concerning the procurement and quality of the ghee.
Conclusion
The situation surrounding the Tirupati Temple’s Laddu Prasadam continues to evolve, with political, cultural, and religious implications at play. Pawan Kalyan’s fast, along with the calls for inquiry, highlights the community’s concern over preserving the integrity of their sacred customs and beliefs.
