Devotee finds centipede in Tirupati prasad, TTD denies allegations

A devotee from Warangal, identified as Chandu, has raised serious concerns after allegedly discovering a centipede in the anna prasadam served at the Pilgrim Amenities Complex II (Madhava Nilayam) in Tirumala. Chandu documented the incident with photographs and shared them widely, prompting swift reactions.

When Chandu reported the issue to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) officials, they expressed surprise but suggested that the insect may have been on the banana leaf used for serving, rather than mixed into the curd rice. This explanation left Chandu unsatisfied, as he noted the staff's casual dismissal of his concerns, stating, “They said, ‘It happens sometimes.’”

TTD quickly denied the allegations, asserting that it is improbable for a centipede to remain intact in prasadam, given the high temperatures at which the food is prepared. They emphasized that the rice is thoroughly mixed while still hot before curd is added, making such an occurrence highly unlikely. Officials also indicated that this complaint might be an attempt to tarnish the temple's reputation.

This incident comes amid a backdrop of recent controversies, including allegations of animal fat being found in the preparation of Tirupati laddus. Such claims have raised questions about food safety and quality at the temple, which serves thousands of devotees daily. TTD has called for devotees to trust in the sanctity of their offerings and reassured the public of their commitment to maintaining high food quality standards.