The Tirupati Balaji Temple in Andhra Pradesh, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India, sees devotees from across the world. Its famous prasad, the Tirupati laddu, is distributed not only to the devotees who visit the temple but also to those who cannot make it to the religious structure, via online services. The recent reports of adulteration and discovery of beef talon, fish oil and lard have upset members of the Hindu community, particularly those from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana who have been devotees of Lord Venkateshwara since childhood.

Tirupati Prasad row: Community speak

Veena Naidu, 51, is a devotee from Chembur. She says, “This is an issue of our faith. Temples are a place of sanctity for us. We expect strict adherence to religious rules at places of worship. When rules are followed at other religious structures, why should they not be followed here? Those who are behind the adulteration must be brought to justice as this is a mockery of our faith.”