Tirupati Laddu row: Dairy gets notice, sanctity restored after ritual.
In the ongoing Tirupati Laddu controversy, the food safety regulator issued a notice to A.R. Dairy, the primary ghee supplier for the temple, after concerns were raised about the quality of ghee used in the sacred prasadam. This follows multiple public interest litigations (PILs) filed against the supplier, alleging substandard ghee production. In response, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) conducted a purification ritual at the temple, assuring devotees that the sanctity of the laddu had been restored. The temple administration reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of purity in preparing the revered laddu prasadam.
The Tirupati Laddu controversy took a serious turn as a four-hour purification ritual was conducted at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) shrine to appease Lord Venkateswara Swamy. This followed allegations that animal fats had been mixed into the sacred Tirupati laddus, a cherished offering for devotees. The purification ritual, a key step in addressing the spiritual concerns, was aimed at restoring the sanctity of the temple’s prasadam.
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam’s executive officer, J. Shyamala Rao, reassured devotees that the sacredness of the laddus had been restored. He emphasized that their concerns could now be put to rest, as the ritual had been successfully completed, and the ‘prasadams’ were once again considered pure and worthy of worship. The executive officer urged devotees to continue to trust the temple administration, emphasizing that maintaining the sanctity of the offerings remained the highest priority for the TTD.
Meanwhile, India’s food safety regulator has stepped in, issuing a show-cause notice to A.R. Dairy, a Tamil Nadu-based company, for allegedly supplying substandard ghee to the TTD. The quality of the ghee used in making the laddus has become a central issue in the controversy, with the temple administration facing increasing pressure to address the concerns raised by devotees, political leaders, and religious organizations.
The situation has led to a growing demand for a thorough investigation. BJP leader and former minister Subramanian Swamy has been vocal in calling for a court-monitored probe into the allegations. He believes that only a comprehensive inquiry under judicial supervision can clear up the controversy and restore the trust of millions of devotees. Swamy’s statement has further galvanized public attention on the matter, with many urging the judiciary to intervene.
At the same time, former TTD chairman and YSRCP MP, Y.V. Subba Reddy, has denied all allegations of adulteration, calling them baseless. Despite this, Reddy has sought an independent inquiry to clear the air and put the controversy to rest. He has suggested that a committee headed by a retired Supreme Court judge should be formed to conduct the investigation. This proposal has been seen as a way to ensure transparency and impartiality in addressing the concerns of the public.
Religious organizations have also voiced their concerns. The Vishva Hindu Parishad’s (VHP) apex body has called for the Supreme Court to take suo motu cognizance of the allegations regarding the adulteration of the Tirupati laddus. The VHP’s involvement highlights the religious and cultural significance of the laddus and the need to preserve their sanctity, which is deeply intertwined with the faith of millions of Hindus across the country.
In response to the escalating controversy, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has announced the formation of a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the claims. The SIT will be tasked with conducting a comprehensive investigation into the allegations of adulteration and ensuring that those responsible for any wrongdoing are held accountable. Naidu’s move is seen as a way to address the concerns of the public while also ensuring that the temple’s reputation remains intact.
The Tirupati laddu, a symbol of devotion and an essential offering for millions of pilgrims who visit the temple, is now at the center of a high-stakes investigation. The allegations of adulteration have not only shaken devotees’ faith but also prompted political and legal actions at multiple levels. With the involvement of religious bodies, political leaders, and the judiciary, the controversy surrounding the laddus is far from over.
The outcome of the investigations will likely have a significant impact on the TTD’s administration and its relationship with devotees. As inquiries proceed, the temple authorities are making efforts to reassure the public that they are committed to preserving the purity and sanctity of the Tirupati laddus, a symbol of divine blessings for millions of people worldwide.