Ghee Controversy in Tirupati Laddoos Sparks Debate
The Tirupati laddoo controversy arose when animal fat was allegedly found in the ghee used for the sacred offering. After the Karnataka Milk Federation stopped supplying Nandini ghee, a new supplier was chosen, sparking concerns about compromised quality. The controversy led to Nandini ghee being restored to maintain the laddoo’s traditional taste.
The Tirupati laddoo, a sacred offering at the Tirumala Venkateswara temple, recently became the center of a controversy. Allegations surfaced that animal fat was found in the ghee used for preparation. This Ghee Controversy in Tirupati Laddoos happened due to the shift in suppliers, after using Nandini ghee for years, which has caused concerns about the laddoo’s quality.
A lab report revealed that the ghee procured during the YSRCP government’s tenure contained traces of fish oil and beef tallow, sparking the issue. Devotees were alarmed, and this sparked a political debate about the procurement process and the quality of ingredients for the sacred prasadam.
Nandini Ghee: A Long-standing Tradition
For almost 15 years, the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) supplied Nandini ghee, a key ingredient in the laddoos. Its high quality contributed to their distinctive taste, enjoyed by thousands of devotees daily. However, in 2023, KMF withdrew from the tender process due to a price hike. As a result, the temple board selected a new supplier that offered a lower price.
Political and Quality Concerns
The decision to change suppliers ignited accusations of compromised quality. KMF president K Bheema Naik argued that no other brand could match Nandini’s quality. He suggested that cheaper ghee might lack the same standards. Consequently, this change led to a public outcry. Politicians from both Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka quickly weighed in. The BJP accused the Congress-led Karnataka government of interfering in religious practices, while others defended the tender process as transparent.
Restoration of Nandini Ghee
To resolve the issue, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) board resumed the procurement of Nandini ghee. This decision on Ghee Controversy in Tirupati Laddoos followed Chandrababu Naidu’s directive to restore the laddoo’s original taste and sanctity. Moving forward, the TTD also formed a committee to ensure the high standards of ghee procurement for laddoo preparation.
This controversy highlights the importance of maintaining quality in the revered Tirupati laddoo offering.
