Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan commenced an 11-day ‘Praschit Deeksha’ (penance) at the Sri Dasavatara Venkateswara Swamy temple in Nambur, Guntur district, in response to allegations of animal fat adulteration in the iconic Tirupati laddu. The initiative began on Sunday after Kalyan performed puja and rituals led by the temple priests.
In his address, Kalyan expressed profound distress over reports that the revered Laddu Prasadam, cherished by millions of devotees, contained ghee adulterated with fish oil and animal fats. “I am filled with guilt over this grave blunder, which should have been identified sooner. It pains me deeply to think that such a severe injustice was committed against Lord Balaji, the God of Kali Yuga,” he stated.
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The Jana Sena leader emphasized that the act of using animal remains in the sacred Laddu is a grievous sin, a sentiment he believes is shared by every follower of Sanatana Dharma. Kalyan declared that this ‘Deeksha’ is a form of atonement for what he perceives as the desecration of a religious institution by previous rulers.
He criticized not only the past administration for this alleged transgression but also the board members and employees of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam, who he claims failed to uncover the issue. “Those without faith in God or fear of sin could commit such an atrocious crime,” he remarked, adding that the failure to act was likely due to fear of the “demonic rulers” of the time.
Kalyan’s penance aims to seek strength from Lord Sri Venkateswara to cleanse the alleged sins of past leaders and restore the sanctity of the temple. “The use of ghee containing animal remains has caused immense pain to the Hindu community. Now is the time to take firm steps to restore Dharma,” he asserted.
This initiative reflects Kalyan’s commitment to upholding religious values and addressing grievances that resonate with many in the Hindu community, emphasizing the need for accountability and reverence in sacred practices.