ttd-reassures-devotees-about-laddu-quality-after-rituals

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Executive Officer J. Shyamala Rao announced on Monday that devotees can put their concerns regarding the temple's laddus to rest, following a four-hour purification ritual aimed at restoring the sanctity of the 'prasadams.'

 

The ritual was conducted to appease Lord Venkateswara Swamy in response to allegations of sacrilegious practices, including the use of animal fats in the preparation of Tirupati laddus.

 

This issue gained national attention after Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu claimed that substandard ingredients had been used under the previous YSRCP government. In response, YSRCP chief Jagan Mohan Reddy has denied all charges.

 

Rao stated in a press release, "This holy ritual was a sin-free ritual. As part of it, Vastu Suddhi and Kumbhajala Samprokshana were carried out by the ritwiks (priests)." 

 

The TTD explained that a Shanti Homam was conducted in accordance with the principles of 'Vaikhanasa Agama' in the 'Yagashala' (ritual place) of the Tirumala temple from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. to ward off any ill effects and restore the sanctity of laddu prasadams and other naivedyams (food offerings). "Our aim was also to ensure the well-being of Srivari devotees," Rao added.

 

Temple priests were observed sprinkling holy water in the potu (kitchen where laddus are made) and over the ingredients used in their preparation. 

 

Following the rituals, Rao emphasised that devotees can be assured of the quality of laddu prasadams and naivedyams. Venugopala Deekshitulu, one of the chief priests of the temple, alongside 'Agama' advisor Mohanarangacharyulu, noted that a series of rituals—including 'Sankalpam', 'Vishwaksena Aradhana', 'Punyahavachanam', 'Vastu Homam', 'Kumbha Pratista', and 'Panchagavya Aradhana'—were performed on Monday morning.

 

After 'Purnahuti', 'Kumbha Prokshana' was conducted, followed by the offering of 'Visesha Naivedyam'. "Henceforth, the laddu prasadams and naivedyams are free from doshas (flaws), and devotees can leave aside any doubts they may have," the TTD stated in the press release. 

 

Additionally, the TTD has encouraged devotees to recite 'Kshama Mantras' while performing deeparadhana (ritual) in their homes, further solidifying the commitment to restoring the sanctity of the temple offerings.