Following Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu’s statement confirming that animal fat was used in the making of the famous Tirupati Venkateswara Temple’s Laddu, discussions have intensified. Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, stated that such a betrayal of the Hindu community will not be forgiven by God, and the sanctity of the temple must be preserved.
“This is a betrayal of the devotees who worship and pray to Lord Venkateswara of Tirupati. The consequences of appointing people from other communities and atheists to the TTD board are now evident,” Kumar said. He had previously expressed concerns that such actions could lead to disrespect for Hindu beliefs and corruption. He urged the Andhra Pradesh government to conduct an immediate investigation to uncover the truth and take strict action against those responsible.
Chandrababu Naidu also alleged that substandard ingredients, along with animal fat, were used in the laddu preparation. He claimed that such practices began under the leadership of YSR Congress leader Jagan Mohan Reddy, during his tenure as Chief Minister.
“During Jagan Mohan Reddy’s rule, even the quality of Tirumala Laddus suffered. Instead of using ghee, they used animal fat. However, now pure ghee is being used. The temple has been sanitized, improving the quality of the laddus,” Naidu remarked.
