Pejawar Swamiji calls for removal of government control over temples

Team Udayavani, Sep 22, 2024, 1:01 PM IST

Udupi: Pejawar Vishwaprasanna Swamiji has emphasized that religious institutions, particularly Hindu temples, should not be under government control but should instead be managed by Hindu trusts.

He referenced a Supreme Court verdict on the matter, drawing attention to the recent controversy surrounding the Tirupati Laddu Prasadam, which he said highlights the need for temples to be freed from government control.

Expressing concern over the Tirupati incident, the seer stated that reports of animal fat being used in the preparation of the Laddu Prasadam, instead of traditional cow ghee, are deeply distressing.

The use of fish oil and pork fat in the sacred offering, he said, is a violation of the sanctity of the temple and an insult to the deity.

“We see Lord Srinivasa of Tirupati as a protector of cows, and to offer him Prasadam made with cow fat is a serious offense,” he said.
He condemned the government’s involvement in such practices and described it as an attack on the religious faith of Hindus.

The seer called for the identification and punishment of those responsible for using prohibited substances, urging the government to take action to maintain peace and respect for religious beliefs.