Pawan Kalyan vs Prakash Raj: Actors Exchange Words Over Tirupati Laddoo Controversy
New Delhi: A controversy over the use of ghee in the renowned Tirupati laddoos has sparked a heated exchange between actor-politician Pawan Kalyan and actor Prakash Raj.
Pawan Kalyan raised serious concerns about alleged adulteration, claiming that animal fats, including fish oil, pork fat, and beef fat, had been used in the preparation of Tirupati laddoos. He directed his criticism towards the previous Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Board, which operated under the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government, demanding answers for the scandal.
In a social media post, Kalyan called for the formation of a national-level ‘Sanatana Dharma Rakshana Board’ to address issues affecting Hindu temples across the country. “A national debate is needed among policymakers, religious leaders, judiciary, media, and citizens to protect Sanatana Dharma from desecration in any form,” he wrote.
However, his remarks were met with strong opposition from actor Prakash Raj, who accused Kalyan of blowing a regional matter out of proportion. Raj urged him to focus on resolving the issue at the state level instead of stoking communal tensions.
“Dear Pawan Kalyan, this occurred in a state where you hold a significant position. Investigate locally, punish the guilty, but don’t escalate this nationally. We already face enough communal unrest,” Raj countered in his response.
Dear @PawanKalyan …It has happened in a state where you are a DCM .. Please Investigate ..Find out the Culprits and take stringent action. Why are you spreading apprehensions and blowing up the issue Nationally … We have enough Communal tensions in the Country. (Thanks to your… https://t.co/SasAjeQV4l
— Prakash Raj (@prakashraaj) September 20, 2024
The controversy further escalated when the TTD confirmed lab tests revealing the presence of animal fat, including pig fat, in the ghee used for the laddoos. In response, the TTD announced the blacklisting of the supplier responsible for the adulterated ghee and initiated legal action.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu condemned the previous YSRCP government, accusing it of compromising the sacredness of Tirupati laddoos. He assured that his government had switched the ghee supplier to Karnataka’s Nandini brand to ensure the purity of the offering.
On the contrary, YSRCP leader Jagan Mohan Reddy dismissed the allegations as political maneuvering, accusing Naidu of creating a distraction from his government’s performance in its initial 100 days.
The central government has also taken notice of the issue, with Union Health Minister JP Nadda requesting a detailed report from the Andhra Pradesh government, while Food Minister Pralhad Joshi has called for a thorough investigation.
