Tuljapur temple invites tenders from private players for preparation of prasad

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Tulja Bhavani temple in Tuljapur has invited tenders from reputed companies to prepare prasad for devotees in the wake of alleged use of animal fat and fish oil in Tirupati Balaji temple's prasad.The temple, located in Dharashiv district, is one of Maharashtra's most revered religious sites, drawing pilgrims from across the country.The move was spearheaded by temple trust's chairman and Dharashiv district collector Sachin Ombase who emphasised the importance of maintaining high standards in the preparation of prasad. "The prasad must be prepared using only pure ghee, adhering to traditional methods. The prasad must also meet the expectations of devotees," Ombase said. The tender, worth Rs 4 crore per year, seeks professional firms with strong track record in food preparation and distribution to handle the task for a period of three years.Historically, the prasad at Tulja Bhavani temple was prepared and supplied by the temple trust, but this practice was halted some time ago due to quality-related complaints. "With the growing number of devotees, the temple authorities had pointed out on multiple occasions the need to rope in experienced companies to ensure quality and consistency in the offerings," said Ombase.The temple, dedicated to Goddess Tulja Bhavani, holds immense religious and cultural significance, being one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India. It has been a centre of worship for centuries, with Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj among its most famous devotees.The temple trust's move comes at a time when prasad offered at religious institutions across the country has come under scrutiny. Tirupati Balaji temple was recently embroiled in controversy after allegations surfaced that its iconic laddu prasad contains animal fat and fish oil. The incident raised concerns over the quality and authenticity of offerings at major pilgrimage sites.To avoid similar issues, the Tuljapur temple has laid down strict guidelines for companies interested in the tender. These guidelines emphasise the use of pure, high-quality ingredients, particularly pure ghee, which is traditionally used in preparing offerings for Hindu deities.The decision is expected to enhance transparency and ensure that the prasad at Tuljapur meets the highest standards of purity and hygiene. Firms participating in the tender are required to follow strict quality control measures, ensuring that the spiritual and cultural sanctity of the prasad is upheld.An official privy to the process maintained that already 12 firms have expressed their interest. If things go according to plan, devotees may once again start getting prasad from the temple in the next couple of months.
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