Tirupati Prasadam row: In the midst of a contentious debate regarding the alleged use of animal fat in the renowned Tirupati laddoos, sales at the Sri Venkateshwara Temple remain robust. This beloved prasad, which attracts over 60,000 pilgrims daily, has seen remarkable sales figures that defy the ongoing controversy.Impressive sales figuresAccording to the temple administration, over 1.4 million (14 lakh) laddoos were sold in just four days, showcasing unwavering devotion among pilgrims. Sales figures included 359,000 laddoos on September 19, 317,000 on September 20, 367,000 on September 21, and 360,000 on September 22. These numbers align with the temples daily average of around 350,000 laddoos.When asked about the controversy, devotee Venkateshwar Rao expressed, “Our faith is too strong to be shaken.” Many others echoed his sentiments, dismissing the ongoing debate over the laddoos as a thing of the past.Ingredients and preparationEvery day, the temple prepares over 300,000 laddoos, which pilgrims often purchase in large quantities to share with friends and family. The laddoos are made from high-quality ingredients, including Bengal gram, cow ghee, sugar, cashews, raisins, and almonds. Remarkably, approximately 15,000 kg of cow ghee is utilized daily in the preparation process.Political controversy on PrasadamThe Tirupati temple has become a focal point of controversy after Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu alleged that the ghee used in laddoo preparation during the previous YSRCP regime contained animal fat. In response, the state government has established a Special Investigation Team to examine these claims.Former Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, whose party was recently ousted in state elections, criticized the ruling TDP for allegedly politicizing religious issues. He stated, “The tender process occurs every six months, and the qualification criteria have not changed for decades. Suppliers must provide an NABL certificate and a product quality certificate. The TTD collects samples of the ghee, and only products that pass certification are used. The TDP is politicizing religious matters,” adding that Mr. Naidu is a “pathological and habitual liar.”
