Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader and CM N Chandrababu Naidu alleged the previous YSRCP government for "adulterating" the sacred Tirumala Laddu, a prasadam offered at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. Naidu asserted that the former Jagan Mohan Reddy-led YSRCP government had "used animal fat in the preparation of the revered Tirupati Laddu prasadam."

During the NDA coalition meeting at the CK Convention Hall in Mangalagiri, Chandrababu Naidu expressed his frustration, stating that despite multiple complaints, the authorities had not taken adequate steps to preserve the sanctity of the sacred prasadam.

Tirumala Laddu
Image Source: Wikipedia

Chandrababu Naidu criticised the previous government's handling of the sacred Tirumala Laddu, claiming that animal fat had been used in place of pure ghee during its preparation, which holds deep spiritual significance for millions of devotees in Tirumala. He expressed displeasure, saying, "It's disheartening to see such negligence. The food served lacked quality, and even the prasadam offered to the deity was impure. The impure ingredients, including animal fat instead of ghee, were used. We have now ensured the use of pure ghee and have taken steps to restore the sanctity. Lord Venkateshwara Swamy's presence in our state is a blessing, and we have to uphold his honor as people from all over the world come to worship here."

In response to Naidu's statement about the Tirumala Laddu, TDP MLC Deepak Reddy remarked, "The previous government used animal fat in making the Tirumala Laddu, which was a serious breach of tradition. They disrespected the sacred practices of the Tirumala Tirupati Temple. Our government is committed to restoring the temple’s sanctity and ensuring its proper management."

YSRCP’s Response on Tirumala Laddu

The YSRC provided a solid response to Naidu's allegations. YSRCP Parliamentary Party President YV Subba Reddy took to X to criticise Naidu, stating, "Chandrababu Naidu has committed a grave sin by undermining the sanctity of the sacred Tirumala Temple and betraying the trust of millions of Hindus. His remarks about Tirumala Prasad are deeply disturbing. No one with a sense of humanity would make such accusations."

He further condemned Naidu, saying, "This incident once again highlights that Chandrababu is willing to engage in any negativity for political gain. To restore the faith of the devotees, my family and I are prepared to swear an oath before God regarding Tirumala Prasad. Will Chandrababu also take a similar oath with his family?"

This isn’t the first time people have raised concerns about the Laddu prasadam from the Tirumala temple. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has previously pointed out issues with the quality of the prasadam, claiming it’s not up to standard. 

Previously, there were no procedures in place at the TTD to test the cheese used to make the ghee for the ‘Srivari’ laddus. But now, the board has set up a new lab in Mysuru where staff are being trained to ensure the quality of the prasadam through proper checks.

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