Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and film actor Prakash Raj have engaged in a heated exchange over the alleged use of animal fat in the preparation of the revered Tirupati Laddu Prasadam, sparking a public debate.

On Tuesday morning, Kalyan visited the Kanaka Durga Temple in Vijayawada as part of his 11-day 'Prayaschitta Diksha', a purification ritual.

During his visit, he addressed the issue, strongly criticising Prakash Raj for questioning his commitment to secularism.

"I am addressing the sanctity of Hinduism and issues such as food adulteration. Why should I remain silent on these matters? I respect Prakash Raj, but secularism must be mutual. Why is he criticising me for speaking out against attacks on Sanatana Dharma? He should learn that this is not a trivial matter," Kalyan said.

He further emphasised the importance of defending Sanatana Dharma and warned that if similar allegations were made in other religions, the response would be far more intense.

In response, actor Prakash Raj, currently abroad for a film shoot, took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating he would address Kalyan’s remarks upon his return.

"Dear Pawan Kalyan garu, I saw your press meet. What I said and what you’ve misinterpreted is surprising. I will reply once I return. Meanwhile, please go through my earlier tweet for clarification," Raj posted.

The controversy began on September 20, 2024, when Kalyan, in a post on X, expressed outrage over the alleged mixing of animal fat, including fish oil, pork fat, and beef fat, in the preparation of the Tirupati Laddu Prasadam.

He also called for the creation of a 'Sanatana Dharma Rakshana Board' at the national level to safeguard the sanctity of temples and dharmic practices across India.

"We are deeply disturbed by the findings of animal fat in Tirupati Prasad. The TTD Board, constituted by the YCP government, must answer for this. Our government is committed to taking the strictest action possible. This incident highlights broader issues related to the desecration of temples," Kalyan wrote.

He urged for a national debate on protecting Sanatana Dharma, involving policymakers, religious leaders, and the judiciary.

In response, Prakash Raj criticised Kalyan for escalating the issue beyond Andhra Pradesh, suggesting it would fuel existing communal tensions in the country.

"Dear Pawan Kalyan, this occurred in a state where you are Deputy CM. Investigate and take action against the culprits, but why spread apprehension nationally? We already have enough communal tension, thanks to your friends in the Centre," Raj remarked on X.

The exchange between the two prominent figures has intensified public attention on the issue, with debates expected to continue at both the state and national levels.

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