Tirupati Laddoo Controversy: Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad Shares Safer Prasad Alternatives

The recent controversy surrounding the famed Tirupati Laddoo has raised significant concerns about the purity of prasads offered at temples. In light of this issue, the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad has proposed a shift in what should be distributed as prasad to ensure it remains free from adulteration.

Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad's prasad suggestions

According to a report by PTI, the organization suggested that instead of prepared sweets like laddoos, temples should distribute traditional offerings such as mishri (rock sugar), cardamom seeds, and dry fruits as prasads. Mahant Ravindra Puri, the President of the Akhara Parishad, emphasized that these items are traditionally used as bhog (food offerings) for Hindu deities and would significantly reduce the risk of contamination.

Puri voiced his disappointment over the alleged adulteration of prasadam at the Tirupati Balaji Temple, stating that it has hurt the sentiments of Hindus worldwide. He asserted that the new system should be implemented across all temples until a guarantee is provided regarding the purity of ingredients, particularly ghee, used in prasadam preparation. “Distributing mishri, cardamom, and dry fruits will leave no room for adulteration,” he said.

In a bid to address the concerns of devotees who may feel guilty about consuming adulterated prasad, Puri recommended purifying themselves with Ganga jal or gomutra (cow urine).

What's the Tirupati Laddoo Controversy all about?

This controversy erupted after allegations surfaced that the beloved Tirupati Laddoo was adulterated with beef tallow and fish oil—ingredients that are not in line with the dietary customs of many devotees. Despite these claims, temple authorities reported impressive sales figures, with over 1.4 million laddoos sold in just four days. The numbers reflect the temple’s usual average, with sales hitting 3.59 lakh on September 19, followed by 3.17 lakh on September 20, 3.67 lakh on September 21, and 3.60 lakh on September 22.