Tirupati Laddu controversy: Prakash Raj vows to meet Pawan Kalyan for one-on-one discussion

etimes.in | Sep 24, 2024, 04.27 PM IST
Tirupati Laddu controversy: Prakash Raj vows to meet Pawan Kalyan for one-on-one discussion
The controversy surrounding the use of adulterated ghee in the Laddu prasadam at the renowned Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) in Andhra Pradesh has sparked nationwide outrage. Social media has become a battleground as people voice differing opinions on the matter. On September 20, Pawan Kalyan expressed concern over allegations of animal fat being added to the prasadam.
In response, actor Prakash Raj urged Pawan, who is also the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, not to escalate the issue on a national level before identifying and punishing those responsible. This exchange led to a heated war of words, with Kalyan questioning whether he had attacked any religion in his remarks and challenged Raj's interpretation of his comments.

Prakash Raj, currently filming abroad, responded to Kalyan's swipe in a social media video. He said, "Dear @PawanKalyan garu, I saw your press meeting... it's surprising how my comments were misinterpreted. I'm currently shooting abroad, but I’ll respond to your questions when I return. In the meantime, I urge you to review my previous tweet for clarity."

He also questioned Kalyan's interpretation of his original message in the video.


Pawan Kalyan, in his statement, criticized those who misuse secularism to provoke controversy. He further urged the public not to mock religious sentiments. Responding to attacks on Sanatana Dharma and Hindu deities, the actor-politician asked if people would dare to make similar remarks about other religions. He also called for a board to protect Sanatana Dharma.

Karthi apologizes to Pawan Kalyan after the latter mocked the former's joking comment on Laddu

Karthi's next film 'Meiyazhagan' is scheduled for release on September 27, with its Telugu version titled 'Sathyam Sundaram'. During a pre-release event, Karthi made a joking comment about Laddu that drew criticism from Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan. Following the backlash, Karthi issued an apology on social media for any unintended misunderstanding.