The ongoing controversy surrounding the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) and its supplier of ghee for the famed Tirupati laddu took a new turn as an employee from AR Dairy Food Private Limited vehemently denied allegations of adulteration. The Tamil Nadu-based company is facing legal action after TTD officials claimed that tests revealed the presence of animal fat and lard in samples of the ghee supplied for the temple prasadam.
Kanan, the quality control officer at AR Dairy, described the allegations as “absurd,” particularly the claim that fish oil was used in the ghee preparation. He pointed out that fish oil is actually more expensive than ghee, making such adulteration economically illogical. “Any adulteration of this kind would be immediately detectable by smell,” he asserted during an interview with a Tamil channel, emphasizing the firm’s commitment to quality.
Since its establishment in 1998, AR Dairy has maintained stringent quality control measures, claiming that all milk used for ghee undergoes 102 quality checks. Kanan also highlighted that their ghee has been approved by TTD, with samples tested at national laboratories before being delivered to the temple.
The controversy has not only stirred the local community but has also drawn reactions from prominent figures. Spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar expressed concern over the impact of the situation on the Hindu community, stating, “The Tirupati laddu row has inflicted a deep wound and rage in the Hindu psyche.” He urged for greater oversight of temple management by religious leaders and devotees rather than officials and business interests.
In response to the scandal, TTD executive officer J Shyamala Rao confirmed the lab results indicating adulteration and emphasized that the temple would take firm action against any wrongdoing. Andhra Pradesh minister Nara Lokesh added that the government would not tolerate the use of animal fats in the revered Tirupati laddus, stressing that a thorough investigation, possibly involving the CBI, would take place.
As the situation unfolds, both the temple authorities and the supplier remain under scrutiny, and the controversy continues to generate significant public interest.
Sources By Agencies
