Best printers for Home

Best Mixer Grinder

Best wired Earphones

Best 43 Inch TV in India

Best Wi Fi Routers

Best Home Theatre in India

Smart Watch under 5000

Best Laptops for Education

Best Laptop for Students

A major controversy has erupted surrounding the renowned <keyword id="23237741" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Tirupati-laddu" source="keywords">Tirupati laddu</keyword>, a sacred offering from the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh, after allegations surfaced about the use of animal fat in its preparation. The ruling Telugu Desam Party (<keyword id="19910623" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="TDP" source="keywords">TDP</keyword>) has accused the previous <keyword id="19973324" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="YSR-Congress-Party" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="YSR Congress Party" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="YSR Congress Party">YSR Congress Party</keyword> (YSRCP)-led government of adulterating the prasadam, a claim that has sent shockwaves through the Hindu community. <h2>The allegations</h2>The controversy began when TDP leader Nara Lokesh, son of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. <keyword id="19926151" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Chandrababu-Naidu" source="keywords">Chandrababu Naidu</keyword>, raised accusations against the former YSRCP government, led by Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy. Lokesh alleged that during YSRCP's tenure (2019–2024), the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) used adulterated ingredients, including animal fat, in the preparation of the sacred Tirupati laddu. He stated, "The previous government maintained Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) solely for their own and their partners' welfare. We exposed substandard Tirumala laddu production using animal fat, supported by lab reports." Lokesh further emphasised that the TDP government has since taken corrective steps by appointing a new Executive Officer (EO) to manage TTD, ensuring that quality standards are upheld. "CM Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to maintain the quality of prasadam. The NDA government will bring new reforms to TTD and restore its past glory," he added. <h2>Lab report confirms presence of animal fat</h2>TDP spokesperson Anam Venkata Ramana Reddy shared findings from a Gujarat-based lab, NDDB CALF Ltd, which allegedly confirmed the use of <keyword id="23237743" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="beef-tallow" source="keywords">beef tallow</keyword>, lard (pig fat), and fish oil in the ghee samples provided by TTD during the YSRCP regime. The samples, collected in July 2024, were reportedly found to contain these animal-derived fats instead of pure cow ghee, sparking outrage among devotees. "The lab reports certify that beef tallow, animal fat, lard, and fish oil were used in the preparation of ghee, which was supplied to Tirumala. This is an affront to the Hindu religion," Reddy stated. <h2>Political reactions and condemnations</h2>The allegations have stirred strong reactions across political lines. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu described the alleged adulteration as a grave insult to the religious sentiments of millions of Hindus. "Even Tirumala laddu was made with substandard ingredients... they used animal fat instead of ghee," he said while addressing the NDA legislature party meeting. Naidu’s son, Nara Lokesh, also took to social media to express his shock and condemnation, tweeting, "The Lord Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Tirumala is our most sacred temple. I am shocked to learn that the YSJagan administration used animal fat instead of ghee in the Tirupati Prasadam." On the other hand, Bhanuprakash Reddy, a former TTD Board Member and BJP leader, strongly condemned the use of animal fat in the revered prasadam and said that they would file a formal complaint against Jagan Mohan Reddy and other officials involved. "During Jagan Mohan Reddy's tenure, TTD used pure cow ghee to prepare laddu. Unfortunately, that was adulterated with vegetable oil and animal fat. This is a very bad thing that happened in the history of Tirumala. We are very sad, and we condemn the issue," Bhanuprakash told ANI. The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has also demanded swift action against those responsible, with its national spokesperson, Vinod Bansal, calling the allegations a "serious issue" and asserting, "Punish those who used animal fat in Tirupati laddu prasadam." <h2>YSR Congress Party denies allegations</h2>Despite the lab reports and mounting political pressure, the YSRCP has vehemently denied the allegations. Senior party leader and former TTD chairman Y.V. Subba Reddy termed the claims "malicious" and accused the TDP of fabricating the issue for political gains. "TDP supremo Chandrababu Naidu will stoop to any level for political gains. These allegations are nothing but an attempt to tarnish the previous government's image," Reddy said. While the TDP continues to push for accountability, the YSRCP remains firm in its stance, dismissing the claims as baseless. Amid the escalating controversy, K. Laxman, President of BJP OBC Morcha, has called for legal action, stating that the Hindu community’s sentiments have been deeply hurt. "The entire Hindu community all over the world condemns the action of the then government. We demand the present Chandrababu-led NDA government take firm legal action against the officials and persons concerned," Laxman asserted. As the scandal unfolds, devotees and political leaders alike await further clarity on the veracity of the lab reports and the actions that will be taken against those involved. For now, the TDP government has reassured devotees that pure cow ghee is once again being used in the preparation of the Tirupati laddu, a move aimed at restoring trust in the <keyword id="23244487" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sacred-prasadam" source="keywords">sacred prasadam</keyword>. (With inputs from agencies)

Tirupati laddu controversy: Gujarat lab confirms presence of various animal fats in the sacred prasadam — here’s all we know

<keyword id="604591" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Alleppey" source="Orion">Alleppey</keyword>, famously known as the "Venice of the East," draws hordes of tourists every year, all eager to traverse its enchanting backwaters. While the serene houseboat rides and lush paddy fields are undoubtedly mesmerizing, Alleppey has more to offer beyond its popular attractions. Delve deeper, and you'll uncover lesser-known treasures that promise unique experiences and authentic encounters with the essence of Kerala's culture and heritage. Pathiramanal Island Tucked away in the middle of Vembanad Lake, Pathiramanal Island remains an unexplored gem waiting to be discovered. Accessible only by boat, this tranquil island is a haven for bird watchers, boasting a diverse range of migratory birds. Wander through its dense foliage, spot exotic avian species, and relish the untouched beauty of nature away from the tourist crowds. Punnapra Beach While Alleppey's beaches may not be as renowned as those in neighboring regions, Punnapra Beach offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. Far from the tourist radar, this pristine stretch of golden sands is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet picnic. Watch local fishermen at work, soak in breathtaking sunsets, and unwind amidst the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore. Krishnapuram Palace Step back in time at Krishnapuram Palace, a lesser-known architectural marvel steeped in history. Tucked away in Kayamkulam, about 47 kilometers from Alleppey, this 18th-century palace boasts exquisite Kerala-style architecture and houses a remarkable collection of ancient artifacts, paintings, and sculptures. Don't miss the palace's most prized possession – the Gajendra Moksha mural, renowned for its intricate craftsmanship and vibrant colors. Ambalapuzha Temple Embark on a spiritual journey to Ambalapuzha Temple, a sacred site dedicated to Lord Krishna located just 14 kilometers from Alleppey. While the temple's architecture is impressive in its own right, it's best known for its delectable prasadam – the famous Ambalapuzha Palpayasam. Savor this divine offering, a sweet rice porridge believed to be the favorite of Lord Krishna, and immerse yourself in the temple's serene ambiance. Marari Beach For those seeking a tranquil retreat, Marari Beach offers a serene alternative to Alleppey's bustling backwaters. Located just a short drive away from the city center, this pristine beach exudes tranquility with its swaying palm trees, soft sands, and azure waters. Indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages, try your hand at traditional fishing with the locals, or simply unwind in a hammock and soak in the serenity of this hidden coastal gem. <keyword id="20608815" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="kuttanad" source="keywords">Kuttanad</keyword> Explore the picturesque countryside of Kuttanad, often referred to as the "Rice Bowl of Kerala." Venture off the beaten path and meander through the labyrinthine network of canals, rivers, and lush greenery that characterize this idyllic region. Marvel at the sight of vibrant paddy fields, coconut groves, and quaint villages dotted along the waterways, offering a glimpse into the rustic charm of rural Kerala life. Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple Delve into the mystical realm of Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, a unique pilgrimage site dedicated to serpent worship. Nestled amidst dense forests in Haripad, about 30 kilometers from Alleppey, this ancient temple is shrouded in myth and legend. Witness rituals dedicated to the serpent deity, explore the temple's serene surroundings, and experience the spiritual aura that pervades this sacred sanctuary. While Alleppey's backwaters may steal the spotlight, the region's lesser-known attractions offer a wealth of experiences waiting to be uncovered. From tranquil beaches and historic palaces to sacred temples and idyllic countryside, each hidden gem adds a layer of depth to Alleppey's cultural tapestry. So, venture off the beaten path, explore with an open heart, and let Alleppey unveil its secrets, one enchanting discovery at a time. Note: The article is based on content generated by AI models like Bard and Chatgpt. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/webstories/top-10-places-to-visit-in-alleppey/slidelist/108479028.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Top 10 places to visit in Alleppey</a>

Exploring Alleppey: Unveiling hidden gems beyond the backwaters

<ul><li>There are 2,559 active cases of <keyword id="1754604" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="coronavirus">Coronavirus</keyword> in Andhra Pradesh.</li><li>So far, 2,906 patients have recovered, including an 85-year-old woman from Anantapur.</li><li>A majority of the the cases are from Kurnool, Guntur, Nellore and Krishna districts. </li></ul>Andhra Pradesh has reported 275 new cases of Coronavirus on June 17, taking the total number of confirmed cases in the state to 5,555. Andhra Pradesh has reported 2 new deaths in the state, taking the total toll in the state to 90. On June 17, 55 persons were discharged from hospitals, resulting in a cumulative tally of 2,906 cured persons in Andhra Pradesh. With this, the number of active cases stands at 2,559. The state nodal officer reported that 15,188 samples were tested during the past 24 hours. <table style="width: 540pt;"> </colgroup></colgroup></colgroup></colgroup></colgroup></colgroup></colgroup></colgroup></colgroup></colgroup> <tbody><tr> <td class="xl63" style="height: 14.4pt; width: 74pt; font-size: 11pt; color: white; font-weight: 700; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; border-top: 0.5pt solid black; border-right-width: initial; border-right-style: none; border-bottom: 0.5pt solid black; border-left: 0.5pt solid black; background: black;">State</td> <td class="xl63" style="width: 175pt; font-size: 11pt; color: white; font-weight: 700; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; border-top: 0.5pt solid black; border-right-width: initial; border-right-style: none; border-bottom: 0.5pt solid black; border-left-width: initial; border-left-style: none; background: black;">Total Cases</td> <td class="xl63" style="width: 179pt; font-size: 11pt; color: white; font-weight: 700; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; border-top: 0.5pt solid black; border-right-width: initial; border-right-style: none; border-bottom: 0.5pt solid black; border-left-width: initial; border-left-style: none; background: black;">Active Cases</td> <td class="xl63" style="width: 56pt; font-size: 11pt; color: white; font-weight: 700; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; border-top: 0.5pt solid black; border-right-width: initial; border-right-style: none; border-bottom: 0.5pt solid black; border-left-width: initial; border-left-style: none; background: black;">Cured</td> <td class="xl63" style="width: 56pt; font-size: 11pt; color: white; font-weight: 700; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; border-top: 0.5pt solid black; border-right: 0.5pt solid black; border-bottom: 0.5pt solid black; border-left-width: initial; border-left-style: none; background: black;">Death</td> </tr> <tr> <td class="xl63" style="height: 14.4pt; font-size: 11pt; color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; border-top: 0.5pt solid black; border-right-width: initial; border-right-style: none; border-bottom: 0.5pt solid black; border-left: 0.5pt solid black; background: rgb(217, 217, 217);">Andhra Pradesh</td> <td class="xl63" style="font-size: 11pt; color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; border-top: 0.5pt solid black; border-right-width: initial; border-right-style: none; border-bottom: 0.5pt solid black; border-left-width: initial; border-left-style: none; background: rgb(217, 217, 217);">5,555</td> <td class="xl63" style="font-size: 11pt; color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; border-top: 0.5pt solid black; border-right-width: initial; border-right-style: none; border-bottom: 0.5pt solid black; border-left-width: initial; border-left-style: none; background: rgb(217, 217, 217);">2,559</td> <td class="xl63" style="font-size: 11pt; color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; border-top: 0.5pt solid black; border-right-width: initial; border-right-style: none; border-bottom: 0.5pt solid black; border-left-width: initial; border-left-style: none; background: rgb(217, 217, 217);">2,906</td> <td class="xl63" style="font-size: 11pt; color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; border-top: 0.5pt solid black; border-right: 0.5pt solid black; border-bottom: 0.5pt solid black; border-left-width: initial; border-left-style: none; background: rgb(217, 217, 217);">90</td> </tr></tbody></table> Note: The Andhra Pradesh government has not included the 1,516 patients from other states and foreign returnees that were earlier included in the total cases. The Andhra Pradesh government has been releasing bulletins on <a href="https://twitter.com/ArogyaAndhra">Twitter</a>. Apart from information about the steps taken by the government to control the disease, information about the patients, including their recent travel history is also posted here. Covid-19 crisis forces budget outlay cut on Andhra Major economic slowdown caused by the Covid-19 pandemic has forced the Andhra Pradesh government to cut down the budget size for 2020-21 by 1.4 per cent over the previous financial year. Finance Minister B. Rajendranath on Tuesday presented a Rs 2.24 lakh crore budget in the Assembly. He proposed an expenditure of Rs 2,24,789 crore, comprising Rs 1,80,392 crore revenue expenditure and Rs 44,396 crore capital expenditure. The estimated revenue deficit is around Rs 18,434 crore and the fiscal deficit is estimated at around Rs 48,295 crore. The fiscal deficit will be around 4.78 per cent of the GSDP, whereas the revenue deficit will be around 1.82 per cent of the GSDP. Four-month-old baby recovers from Covid in Andhra A four-month-old baby in Andhra Pradesh has recovered from Covid-19, after being on ventilator for 18 days, officials said. The recovery, which is sure to give hope to many battling the dreaded virus, happened in Visakhapatnam. The baby, who had picked up the virus from her mother, was discharged from Visakha Institute of Medical Sciences (VIMS) late on Friday. Tirupathi receives ₹25.7 lakh donations on first day The world's richest Hindu shrine managed by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) saw offerings to the tune of ₹25.7 lakh pour in on Monday, when its doors were opened for the devotees, about 80 days after they were shut in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. People freely move around in Andhra sans masks in Unlock 1.0 On a day when lockdown measures were relaxed and businesses opened up, the common public in Andhra Pradesh were seen moving freely, most of them without a mask, with Unlock 1.0 entering its second week on Monday. "Most people are not wearing masks. People are moving around freely, both on foot and on vehicles," Anil Kumar Govada, who drove from Kalla Mandal in West Godavari district to Vuyyuru in Krishna district on Monday morning, covering a distance of 78 km, told IANS. "I have seen some devotees at a temple in Singarayipalem in Krishna district," said Kumar about the village which is enroute Gudivada town. Andhra deploys IBM Watson chatbot to answer Covid-19 queries The Andhra Pradesh National Health Mission portal has integrated the IBM Watson virtual agent to help the residents quickly get answers to their queries about Covid-19. The chatbot is designed to understand and respond to common questions about Covid-19 in English, Telugu and Hindi, IBM said on Thursday. The virtual agent is deployed in a web browser and it is built in a way that it safeguards the privacy of the users, the company added. Tirumala temple to hold 'trial run of darshan' with limited devotees The Andhra Pradesh government has given nod to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) to conduct a trial run of 'darshan' at the Tirumala temple with TTD employees and local devotees. On a request by the TTD, which manages the affairs of the world's richest Hindu temple, the state government accorded the permission with the concurrence of the department of health and family welfare. In a memo issued by JSV Prasad, Special Chief Secretary to the state government, the TTD will hold a "trial run for TTD employees and local public of Tirumala, with limited number of people duly ensuring physical distance of 6 feet at all times and all points". Andhra Secretariat employee tests positive, two blocks shut An employee of Andhra Pradesh Secretariat has tested positive for Covid-19, prompting the authorities to shut down two blocks on Monday and advise 84 employees to work from home for next two weeks. Employees working in blocks 3 and 4 were directed not to come to the secretariat and were instead advised to work from home for 14 days. Health authorities took up disinfectant operations in the entire premises including the two blocks. The infected Secretariat employee, who works in the Agriculture Department, had, along with many others, returned last week to Amaravati from Hyderabad, where they were stranded during the lockdown period. AP procures record quantities of agri-produce Despite the Covid-19 outbreak and the restrictions brought about by the nationwide lockdown since March 24, the Andhra Pradesh government has managed to procure record quantities of agricultural produce and help farmers of the state cope with the economic uncertainty. Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy said on Tuesday that Rs 1,100 crore was spent on procurements during the Covid-19 lockdown alone, which is half of the overall money spent during the last eight months Tirumala temple to sell laddus at 50% discount With uncertainty continuing as to when the darshan will resume, Sri Venkateswara temple authorities on Wednesday decided to sell 'Tirupati laddu Prasadam' or the sacred offering among devotees at 50 per cent discount across Andhra Pradesh and in state capitals of neighbouring states. The laddu, weighing 175 grams, will be sold for ₹25, against its actual price of ₹50 in normal days. Woman refuses entry to husband without Covid-19 test The surging fears and stigma over coronavirus infection forced a woman in Andhra Pradesh to refuse entry to her husband in the house, till he underwent Covid-19 test. The incident occurred in Venkatagiri in Nellore district when the man stuck in Nellore since the lockdown began finally returned to his hometown. The man, working in a gold shop in Nellore, was stranded there since lockdown was enforced last month. He finally succeeded in reaching Venkatagiri on Wednesday. However, his wife asked him to first undergo the screening for coronavirus before entering the house. See also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/coronavirus-cases-in-hyderabad-telangana-news-and-updates/articleshow/74823424.cms">Coronavirus cases in Telangana</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/coronavirus-cases-in-gujarat-news-and-updates/articleshow/74830845.cms">Coronavirus cases in Gujarat</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/coronavirus-cases-in-bihar-news-and-updates/articleshow/74833815.cms">Coronavirus cases in Bihar</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/coronavirus-patient-cases-in-uttar-pradesh-news-and-updates/articleshow/74833735.cms">Coronavirus cases in Uttar Pradesh</a>

Andhra Pradesh Coronavirus cases rise to 5,555, 90 dead and 2,906 recovered till June 17

You Searched For "sacred prasadam" and got 3 results

Tirupati laddu controversy: Gujarat lab confirms presence of various animal fats in the sacred prasadam — here’s all we know

BI India Bureau

Exploring Alleppey: Unveiling hidden gems beyond the backwaters

Ayush Mehrotra

Andhra Pradesh Coronavirus cases rise to 5,555, 90 dead and 2,906 recovered till June 17

Rounak Jain

Popular Keywords

Buying Guides