No compromise on quality,” assures Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams after ‘adulteration’ controversy. The temple gears up for the grand Brahmotsavam festival from October 4-12.
The iconic Tirupati Temple in Andhra Pradesh
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) is ramping up preparations to serve 8-9 lakh laddus daily at the Sri Venkateswara Temple, following the introduction of a new ghee supplier, Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF). This move comes after allegations of adulteration in the laddus, which caused a political stir in the state.
TTD Executive Officer J. Syamala Rao assured that there will be “no more compromise on the quality of the laddus and the ghee used in their preparation.” KMF’s Nandini brand ghee is being rushed to the temple kitchens, known as ‘potu’, to ensure the laddus meet their traditional high standards.
In response to the adulteration row, TTD has temporarily halted the use of cow ghee and milk-based products for other offerings, known as “prasadams.” The temple is also conducting a thorough review of raw material quality, after reports of deficiencies in the free meals, or “anna prasadam,” provided to pilgrims.
With the Brahmotsavam festival scheduled from October 4-12, TTD is stocking up on essential ingredients to ensure smooth operations. The nine-day event is expected to draw 7-8 lakh devotees, with October 8, the day of Garuda Seva, expected to see particularly heavy crowds.
The temple’s Potu kitchen is working round the clock to maintain a daily stock of 8-9 lakh laddus for the festival, said Potu in-charge Muni Ratnam. Andhra Pradesh minister Nara Lokesh Naidu also confirmed that KMF is fully equipped to meet the temple’s ghee requirements, ensuring a steady supply throughout the event.
TTD has also issued traffic advisories for pilgrims attending Brahmotsavam. From October 7-9, two-wheelers will be restricted on ghat roads leading to and from the temple. Pilgrims are advised to use APSRTC buses to avoid traffic congestion, with designated parking areas provided for private vehicles.
The TTD is committed to ensuring a smooth and sacred experience for devotees during this grand annual festival, focusing on both quality and logistics.
