Hyderabad: In a heated political exchange, Andhra Pradesh’s ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has leveled serious allegations against the opposition YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) regarding the sanctity of the Tirupati temple’s prasadam. The TDP claims that the ghee used in the famous Tirupati laddus, offered at the Sri Venkateswara Temple, contained animal fats during the YSRCP’s tenure.
A recent laboratory report from the Centre for Livestock and Food Analysis and Study, part of the National Dairy Development Board in Gujarat, has confirmed the presence of animal fats in the ghee used for the laddus. The analysis revealed traces of fish oil, beef fat, and other animal-derived fats. Notably, the report identified semi-solid white fat, typically sourced from pig adipose tissue, within the ghee samples.
In response, senior YSRCP leader B. Karunakara Reddy vehemently denied the allegations, accusing TDP Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu of orchestrating a political smear campaign. Reddy, a two-time former president of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), described Naidu’s accusations as “unwarranted, horrific and unholy.”
“To attack YSRCP, Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and the previous government, he (Naidu) made a vile allegation that animal fat was used in making laddus of Swami (deity). This is reprehensible,” Reddy stated emphatically. He further questioned the feasibility of incorporating animal fat into the sacred laddus, asserting that such an act would invoke divine retribution from Lord Mahavishnu.
Reddy also suggested that Naidu’s allegations were a strategic move to garner political advantage. “Any kind of allegations can be made, but making such allegations on Venkateswara Swamy’s laddu for political gains is condemnable. The gods will punish Naidu and his family,” he added.
The controversy has sparked debates among devotees and political analysts alike, with many questioning the authenticity of the laboratory findings and the motives behind the political confrontation. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams has yet to issue an official statement regarding the report.
As the situation unfolds, both parties remain steadfast in their positions, highlighting the deep-seated rivalry that continues to shape Andhra Pradesh’s political landscape.