Mankameshwar Temple Bans Outside Offerings Amid Tirupati Laddu Adulteration Controversy

GG News Bureau
Lucknow, 24th Sept. Amid the ongoing controversy regarding the “adulteration” of Tirupati laddus, the Mankameshwar temple has implemented a ban on offerings of ‘prasad’ purchased by devotees from outside. Instead, devotees are allowed to offer homemade ‘prasad’ or fruits to maintain the sanctity of the temple.

Mahant Devya Giri of the Mankameshwar temple stated on Monday that the distribution of “adulterated” ‘prasad’ in the Tirupati temple is an “unpardonable crime.”

She urged devotees to ensure that the prasad they offer does not contain any non-vegetarian ingredients, suggesting they bring prasad made with homemade ghee or dry fruits, or alternatively, offer fruits.

“This directive, while causing some difficulty, is insignificant compared to the sanctity of the temple,” Giri emphasized.

She expressed her shock at the idea that non-vegetarian food could be served as prasad in a temple, describing it as a severe blow to Sanatan dharma. Giri called for all Hindu temple administrators to collaborate in ensuring the provision of vegetarian prasad.

On the specific issue of the alleged adulteration of Tirupati laddus, she stated, “This is an unpardonable crime. The people responsible for this should not face any punishment less than death.”

The controversy began after Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu claimed that substandard ingredients and animal fat were used in the preparation of Tirupati laddus during the previous Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy-led government.

The YSRCP responded by accusing Naidu of making “heinous allegations” for political gain. In light of these claims, Naidu has announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team to probe the matter.