Hindu Dharma Acharya sabha expresses concern over alleged adulteration in Tirumala laddu prasadam

Vijayawada: The Hindu Dharma Acharya Sabha (HDAS) expressed concern over alleged adulteration in the laddu prasadam prepared at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), stating that the issue deeply hurt the sentiments of Hindu community across the globe.In a statement issued by the convenor of HDAS, Swami Paramatmananda Saraswati said the presence of impurity in the sacred naivedyam was confirmed by the Supreme Court-appointed special investigation team (SIT). He said that, though the exact nature of the adulterant is still under discussion, using adulterated ghee in the preparation of the offering violates scriptural prescriptions.The statement added that, in Hindu temple practices, naivedyam is treated as an offering to the deity, and it should not be seen as mere food adulteration. Since temple administration is under the control of the state govt, Paramatmananda said the govt of the period in which the incident occurred should be made accountable for the lapse.Managing temple affairs should be treated as a religious responsibility rather than a routine administrative function, Paramatmananda said, adding that officials dealing with temple affairs should be familiar with scriptural and Agama principles governing temple practices.The Sabha recommended organising seminars on ritual standards, including Dravya Shuddhi principles, to prevent similar issues in the future. It said the incident should serve as a reminder to ensure that temple administration is handled with accountability and adherence to religious traditions.