Mankameshwar Temple Bans Market Offerings Amid Tirupati Laddu Controversy

Amid rising concerns regarding the purity of the renowned Tirupati ‘laddu prasadam’, the Mankameshwar Temple in Lucknow has implemented a ban on offerings sourced from the market. Devotees are now encouraged to bring homemade items for offerings, as the temple administration takes steps to ensure the integrity of the sacred prasadam.

Mahant Divya Giri stated, “We have taken an initiative in view of the Tirupati prasadam row. There is always some adulteration in food products. We have banned the prasad bought from outside in the ‘Garbh Grih’. We have requested the devotees to bring homemade prasad.” This decision follows allegations of adulterated ghee being used in the preparation of the beloved Tirupati laddu, also known as ‘Srivari Laddu’, a staple offering at the temple for over three centuries.

#WATCH | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh | Mahant Divya Giri says, “We have taken an initiative in view of the Tirupati Prasadam row. There is always some adulteration in the food products. We have banned the prasad bought from outside in the ‘Garbh Grih’. We have requested the devotees… https://t.co/xtW7ucDail pic.twitter.com/Ia2xiU7n5J

— ANI (@ANI) September 23, 2024

Allegations of Adulteration Spark Outrage

The controversy erupted when the newly-elected Telugu Desam Party (TDP) government accused the previous YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government of using adulterated ghee. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu claimed that animal fat was used instead of pure ghee in the laddus, raising alarms among devotees. In response, YSRCP leader Jagan Mohan Reddy dismissed these allegations, asserting that no violations occurred under his administration. He even wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clarify the situation, labelling the controversy as unwarranted.

SIT Established to Investigate Claims

In light of the allegations, Chief Minister Naidu announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the purported use of animal fat in the preparation of the laddus. This decision came after a public interest litigation (PIL) was filed in the Supreme Court, demanding a thorough inquiry into the matter. Naidu expressed his concern at a press conference, stating that the community’s sentiments were hurt by the revelations. He questioned how pure ghee could be supplied at the price of ₹319, especially when palm oil is costlier.

Naidu outlined that an Inspector General level officer would lead the SIT, which is expected to probe the circumstances surrounding the alleged misuse of power and provide a comprehensive report to the government. He assured that stringent actions would be taken to prevent such adulteration in the future, emphasising that there would be “no compromise” on this issue.

Lab Tests Indicate ‘Foreign Fat’ Presence

Recent lab tests conducted by a Gujarat-based National Dairy Development Board revealed troubling findings regarding the ghee used for preparing the prasadam. The analysis indicated traces of “foreign fat” in the ghee sample. According to the report, samples revealed the presence of beef tallow, pig fat, and fish oil, further corroborating the concerns raised by Naidu. The receipt for the sample was recorded on July 9, 2024, with the report issued on July 16.

The temple administration later confirmed that they had encountered sub-standard ghee containing lard in their quality checks, echoing the claims made by Naidu just days earlier.

Jagan Mohan Reddy’s Rebuttal to Allegations

In an eight-page letter to Prime Minister Modi, Jagan Mohan Reddy accused Naidu of harming the beliefs of millions for political gain. He detailed the practices followed by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) and claimed that Naidu’s actions not only tarnished the reputation of the Chief Minister but also undermined the sanctity of the TTD and its offerings.

Jagan argued, “It is imperative that Mr Naidu be reprimanded in the severest way for his shameless act of spreading lies and that the truth be brought to light.” He expressed that addressing these concerns would help restore the faith of crores of Hindu devotees in the sanctity of the TTD.

In summary, the ongoing controversy surrounding the purity of Tirupati laddu prasadam has prompted significant actions from both temple authorities and political leaders. As the investigation unfolds, devotees are left grappling with the implications of these revelations on their faith and the sacred practices surrounding this revered offering.