In a shocking revelation, a recent lab report has confirmed the presence of animal fats, including beef tallow and fish oil, in the ghee used to make the famous Tirupati laddoos. This discovery has sparked a major controversy, with political parties and religious groups expressing outrage.
The report, conducted by NDDB CALF, a private laboratory specializing in testing animal feed and milk products, revealed that the ghee samples contained foreign fats such as palm oil, fish oil, beef tallow, and lard (rendered pig fat). These findings have raised serious concerns about the sanctity and purity of the laddoos, which are offered as prasad at the revered Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati.
Political Reactions
The controversy has quickly escalated into a political battle. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu accused the previous YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government of using substandard ingredients and animal fats in the laddoos. “The Lord Venkateswara Swamy temple at Tirumala is our most sacred temple. I am shocked to learn that the YS Jagan Mohan Reddy administration used animal fat instead of ghee in the Tirupati Prasadam,” Naidu stated.
In response, YSRCP leaders have dismissed the allegations as politically motivated. Rajya Sabha member Subba Reddy accused Naidu of damaging the sanctity of the temple and the faith of millions of devotees with his comments.
Religious and Public Outcry in Tirupati
The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has termed the issue as “serious” and demanded strict action against those responsible for using animal fats in the laddoos. “This is a very serious issue, raised by none other than Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. This hurts crores of Hindus sentiments,” a VHP spokesperson said.
Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Y. S. Sharmila has called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe to ascertain the truth. “Immediately constitute a high-level committee or investigate with the CBI whether animal fat used instead of ghee,” Sharmila demanded1.
Temple Trust’s Response
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which manages the temple, has yet to issue an official statement regarding the lab report. However, sources within the TTD have indicated that an internal investigation is underway to verify the claims and ensure the purity of the prasad.
As the controversy unfolds, devotees and the general public await further clarification from the authorities. The use of animal fats in the laddoos not only raised questions but also about the respect for religious sentiments.
