Concerns Over Ghee Quality at Odisha’s Sarala Temple Amid Tirupati Laddu Row

Jagatsinghpur: Following the controversy surrounding Tirupati laddoos, the quality of ghee used for prasad preparation at temples in Odisha has come under scrutiny. On Friday, a four-member team led by the Jagatsinghpur food inspector visited Maa Sarala Temple in Jagatsinghpur after receiving complaints about the use of potentially adulterated ghee for rituals and prasad.

The temple’s chief priest raised concerns, alleging that the ghee procured from the Odisha State Cooperative Milk Producers’ Federation (OMFED) was of poor and sub-standard quality. Devotees and servitors have also reported an unpleasant odour emanating from the ghee used at the shrine.

In response to these complaints, the food inspector, Samita Das, oversaw the collection of samples from a 15-litre tin of unused ghee from the kitchen from the kitchen. “We received media reports alleging the use of substandard ghee, prompting our visit to collect samples for testing. The findings will be submitted to higher authorities for necessary action,” Das stated.

The concern over ghee quality has heightened as the temple expects a significant influx of devotees during the Navratri festival. Reports indicate that the ‘Manda Bhoga’ is being sold for Rs 100 during this festive period.

This incident follows a recent announcement by Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan regarding the appointment of a food inspector at Srimandir to ensure the quality of ‘mahaprasad’, ‘Sukhili Bhogs’ and ghee.