Tirupati Laddu Row: Tirumala temple to conduct 'shuddhikaran pooja' for spiritual cleansing

PTC News Desk: In response to recent allegations that the sacred 'prasadam' from the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) in Andhra Pradesh contained animal fat, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has taken swift action to address the concerns of devotees. One of the key steps is the initiation of a 'Shuddhikaran Pooja' at the temple, scheduled for Monday, September 23. This purification ritual is a vital measure to maintain the sanctity of the religious practices associated with the TTD, and it demonstrates the government's commitment to protecting the temple's spiritual integrity.

Following consultations with Agama Shastra advisors, Chief Minister Naidu laid out the plan for the purification process. A Shanti Homa will be conducted from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., followed by the Panchagavyam purification ceremony at the temple’s golden well.

"From 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Monday, Santhi Homam Panchagavya Prokshana will be done at the Bangaru Bavi (golden well) Yagashala in Srivari (Sri Venkateswara) temple," Naidu explained, emphasising the importance of these rituals in restoring the temple’s purity and resolving any concerns surrounding its sacred offerings.

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Investigative Measures and Public Sentiment

In addition to the religious rituals, Chief Minister Naidu has also announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the allegations of adulteration involving animal fats in the 'prasadam.' The SIT, to be led by a senior officer of IG rank or above, will thoroughly probe the matter, investigating any misuse of power and irregularities in the preparation of the sacred offerings.

"An IG-level officer-manned SIT will be formed. It will probe all the reasons and misuse of power and report to the government. The government will take stringent action to prevent future occurrences of laddu adulteration. There will be no compromise," Naidu stated during a press conference at his residence in Undavalli.

The controversy has deeply affected public sentiment, as the 'prasadam' holds immense cultural and religious significance for millions of devotees. Naidu acknowledged the hurt feelings of the people and reiterated that no one has the right to tamper with their faith. His administration's zero-tolerance policy towards any actions that undermine the temple's sanctity reflects its dedication to preserving the trust and beliefs of the devotees.

Preserving Faith and Accountability

The swift and decisive response by the Andhra Pradesh government highlights the seriousness with which these allegations are being treated. By combining ritualistic purification with investigative efforts, the government is working to safeguard the sanctity of the Tirumala temple and its offerings. As the SIT investigates the allegations, the temple’s purification rituals are intended to restore the faith of the devotees and uphold the spiritual purity of the temple.

Chief Minister Naidu's declaration that "nobody has the right to play with people's sentiments" underscores the government's commitment to maintaining the trust of the millions of devotees who revere the temple. The combination of religious and investigative actions marks a significant step in addressing concerns and ensuring the sanctity of one of India’s most important religious sites remains intact.

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