TIRUPATI: Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Executive Officer J Shyamala Rao explained that a Santhi Homam will be conducted on Monday from 6 AM to 10 AM at Yagasala near Bangaru Bavi (Golden Well) to address concerns among devotees regarding the presence of animal fat in the ghee used for making Srivari Laddu Prasadam.
Addressing the media at Padmavati Guest House in Tirupati on Sunday evening, along with the advisors of Agama Shastra, the EO stated that TTD is currently purchasing ghee at Rs 475 per litre from reputed suppliers, Nandini and Alfa Foods. The ghee samples taken from the both have been sent for testing at NDDB and yielded positive results. For reference, the reports indicating the quality of pure and adulterated ghee would be shared with the media to point out variations, he said.
He further explained, “We initiated the process of sending samples to NABL-accredited labs, as they are the only reliable source for testing adulteration. TTD currently has no facility to test for adulteration in ghee, and the testing capacity at our labs is insufficient. Therefore, for the first time, we have begun sending samples to NABL labs to ensure the quality of ghee used for Laddu Prasadam, and we will continue this practice.”
A sensory panel of 18 members, trained at Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) Mysore, has been deployed to evaluate the ghee based on colour, taste, and smell. Only ghee receiving a score of at least 7 out of 9 will be accepted for Prasadam making. Ghee with lower ratings will be rejected, he informed.
NDDB has offered to donate equipment worth Rs 75 lakhs to test the quality of ghee and adulteration, which is expected to be provided by December. Additionally, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has agreed to set up a lab in Tirumala. The building for the lab is already identified and the same was communicated with FSSAI. Rao emphasized that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure the quality of ghee used in Laddu Prasadam, and the current batch is made from pure ghee. Feedback from devotees who purchased the Laddu Prasadam has been positive, particularly regarding its colour, taste, and smell.
He also mentioned that Pavitrotsavam will be organized annually in Sravana Masam to seek the Lord’s forgiveness for any mistakes made by officials, priests, or devotees at Tirumala. This year, Pavitrotsavam was celebrated from August 15 to 17, with Samprokshana performed at Annaprashan Potu and Laddu Potu, and Pavitrams offered to Krishna Swami idols in Potu.
Under the guidance of Agama Shastra advisors, including Pedda Jiyangar, and following the suggestion of the Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, a Santhi Homam is scheduled on Monday from 6 AM to 10 AM.
Three Homagundams will be arranged, and as part of the ritual, ‘Panchagavya Prokshana’ will be performed throughout the temple premises to dispel any doubts among devotees of Tirumala.
