Vishnu Manchu Rebukes Prakash Raj Over Tirupati Laddu Controversy; Sparks Heated Exchange

A heated exchange unfolded online when actor-producer Vishnu Manchu criticized Prakash Raj for his comments on the Tirupati laddu adulteration issue. Prakash Raj, known for his outspoken views on social and political matters, had earlier questioned actor-politician Pawan Kalyan on the lack of action in addressing the prasad adulteration at Tirupati temple. Raj’s remarks came after Pawan suggested forming a national-level ‘Sanatana Dharma Rakshana Board’ to monitor temple-related issues, including the recent controversy.

In his response, Prakash Raj accused Pawan Kalyan of blowing the issue out of proportion and stirring communal tensions across the country. Raj’s criticism was seen as targeting Pawan’s handling of the prasad issue, which had deeply disturbed the Hindu community. According to Raj, such a move could inflame existing communal divisions in India, which are already a sensitive subject.

Vishnu Manchu swiftly came to Pawan Kalyan’s defense. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Manchu urged Raj to “calm the heck down.” He stated that the Tirumala laddu is more than just prasad—it represents faith for millions of Hindus worldwide. Vishnu further emphasized that Pawan Kalyan, in his capacity as the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, had every right to demand a thorough investigation to safeguard sacred traditions. He also implied that Prakash Raj was the one adding unnecessary communal tones to the issue, asking him to “stay in his lane.”

Prakash Raj responded with a sarcastic post, sharing laughing emojis and commenting, “Ok sivayyyyyaaaaa .. i have my perception .. you have yours … Noted,” indirectly brushing off Vishnu’s remarks.

The controversy began after Pawan Kalyan publicly expressed concern over the reported adulteration of the Tirupati laddu, which allegedly contained animal fats, including fish oil, pork fat, and beef fat. He pointed out that the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) board, constituted by the YCP government, had failed to address these concerns. Pawan called for immediate action and suggested that a Sanatana Dharma Rakshana Board be established at the national level to oversee temple matters.

Prakash Raj, a vocal critic of right-wing politics, frequently finds himself embroiled in controversies due to his outspoken nature. His criticism of Pawan Kalyan was viewed by many as yet another attempt to challenge the narrative surrounding religious and cultural matters in India. However, this time his comments have drawn sharp backlash from devotees and politicians alike, with accusations of him being “anti-Hindu” and “anti-national” resurfacing.

Meanwhile, the prasad adulteration issue has ignited anger among Hindus, with many calling for immediate and stringent action against those responsible. The Tirupati temple administration has reassured devotees that the purity of the laddus has since been restored, and stricter protocols are now in place to ensure that only high-quality ingredients are used in the sacred offering.