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The Tirupati laddu, a beloved prasad at Tirumala Venkateswara temple, faces controversy after reports of animal fat in its ingredients. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam's (TTD) preparation methods are under scrutiny.
Tirupati Laddu Significance
- The Tirupati laddu, also known as Srivari laddu, dates back to the 1920s, as noted by an official from the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD).
The TTD holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the laddu, granting them exclusive rights to produce and sell it, preventing others from doing so.
The laddu is a special offering at the temple of Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who is believed to help humanity through dark times according to Hindu mythology.
Making of Tirupati Laddus
- The Tirupati laddus, offered at the sacred shrine of Lord Venkateswara in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, are famous for their distinct taste and are loved by devotees worldwide.
- These laddus are carefully prepared in the temple’s kitchen, known as the 'Potu.'
- The preparation follows a strict process called 'dittam,' which specifies the ingredients and quantities.
- The recipe has only been changed six times in history. Initially, the boondi made from besan (gram flour) and jaggery syrup was introduced to increase the shelf life of the prasadam. Almonds, cashews, and raisins were later added for flavor and nutrition.
Tirupati Laddu Cost
- TTD produces and distributes around 3 lakh laddus daily, generating about Rs 500 crore annually from laddu sales.
- Laddus are available within and outside the temple premises at designated counters, lasting up to 15 days when packaged.
- The laddus come in three sizes: small (40 grams, free for devotees), medium (175 grams, priced at ₹50), and large (750 grams, priced at ₹200).
Tirupati Laddu History
- The offering of Tirupati laddus began in 1715, more than 300 years ago.
- In 2014, the Tirupati laddu received GI status, preventing others from selling laddus under this name.
Quality Control
- A state-of-the-art food testing laboratory ensures each batch of laddus meets specific standards for cashews, sugar, and cardamom and weighs exactly 175 grams.
Tirupati Laddu Latest Controversy
- The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) recently claimed that a laboratory in Gujarat found traces of “beef tallow,” “lard,” and fish oil in the Tirupati laddu ingredients.
- This report has sparked outrage, as consuming beef and certain meats is against Hindu religious beliefs.
- The controversy has led to a political dispute between the TDP and the YSR Congress Party, with accusations that the YSR government had introduced these practices.
