While it remains unknown who introduced the laddu in the temple, records show the prevalence of it from as early as 1790 AD

TIRUPATI: Despite the ongoing controversy surrounding the alleged adulteration of ghee used in the preparation of Tirumala Srivari Laddu Prasadam, its sales have remained robust on the hill

Priests of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) on Monday performed a cleansing ritual following alleged reports of the presence of animal fat, including beef tallows in the famous Tirupati laddu offe

The ritual began at 6 am and lasted till 10 am. It was aimed at propitiating Lord Venkateswara Swamy from the alleged sacrilegious practices such as mixing animal fats in making Tirupati laddus (consecrated sweet) and others.

According to TTD, the Shanti Homam is being conducted to ward off ill effects of adulteration, restore sanctity of Laddu Prasadams.

Stating that action would be taken against the guilty based on the SIT report, he vowed to purify Tirumala and restore its glory.

TTD Executive Officer J. Syamala Rao confirmed that the rituals took place at Yagasala from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. A group of temple priests performed the puja, followed by associated purification rituals.

In response to the ongoing ghee adulteration controversy at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has ordered a purification ritual for the templ

This comes after Naidu and the TDP alleged that during the previous YSRCP government, ingredients such as beef tallow, lard, and fish oil were used in the preparation of Tirumala laddus.

Naidu said that government will consult with leading Hinduism experts to determine the future course of action.