20 Crore Tirupati Laddoos Made With Adulterated Ghee, Says TTD Official
A staggering 20 crore Tirupati laddoos—the sacred prasadam of Tirumala Temple—were prepared using adulterated ghee between 2019 and 2024, according to a senior Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) official. The revelation has sparked health concerns, legal action, and widespread devotee anger.
Why This Is a Major Scandal
Tirupati laddoos are not just sweets but divine offerings made from pure ghee, besan, sugar, and dry fruits. Millions of devotees consume them with faith in their sanctity and purity. However, lab tests confirmed that 30% of the ghee used was mixed with vegetable oils and synthetic additives—likely to cut costs.
Key Findings:
- 20 crore laddoos affected over 5 years
- Ghee samples failed purity tests (FSSAI standards)
- Suppliers and officials suspended, criminal probe underway
How the Adulteration Was Exposed
The scam surfaced during a routine TTD quality check. Irregularities in ghee procurement records triggered forensic tests, revealing:
– Fake supply invoices
– Substituted ingredients (cheaper oils passed off as ghee)
A TTD spokesperson called it a “betrayal of trust”, vowing strict action.
Health Risks & Spiritual Betrayal
Adulterated ghee may contain harmful trans fats, linked to:
✔ Heart disease
✔ Diabetes
✔ Digestive issues
Devotees expressed shock and distress. “We offered these laddoos to God—now we feel cheated,” said a pilgrim from Chennai.
Legal Actions & Reforms
- FSSAI notified, statewide crackdown on oil adulteration
- TTD’s new safeguards:
- Real-time ingredient tracking
- Third-party audits
- Penalties: Up to life imprisonment under Food Safety Act, 2006
TTD’s Damage Control
- Current laddoos now use certified pure ghee
- Legal action against suppliers for compensation
- Devotee hotline to report prasadam quality issues
Lessons for Religious Institutions
This scandal highlights the need for:
🔹 Transparent sourcing
🔹 Digital traceability
🔹 Devotee awareness
The TTD promises reform, but rebuilding trust will take time. For now, devotees hope their sacred laddoos regain purity.
