Prasad Controversy at Shaktipeeth Ambaji Temple Leads to Major Actions

PALANPUR, 04 October - The revered Shaktipeeth Ambaji Temple in Danta tehsil of Banaskantha district finds itself in the midst of controversy, following suspicions of adulterated ghee being used in the preparation of Prasad. Consequently, the temple administration has chosen not to renew its contract with Mohini Caterers, the Prasad-making firm in Ambaji, which expired on September 30.

Varun Varnwal, President of the Temple Trust and Collector of Banaskantha district, reported that ahead of the Bhadarvi Poonam fair, held from September 23-29, the ghee intended for Prasad preparation was sampled and tested on August 28. The sample report, received on September 15, revealed substandard quality. In response, the temple officials seized 180 boxes of the ghee and sourced pure ghee from Banas Dairy for the subsequent Prasad preparations.

With over 45 lakh devotees visiting during the Bhadarvi Poonam fair, concerns amplified about potentially adulterated Prasad being distributed. Addressing this, Varnwal stated that until a new contractor is appointed, the temple staff and cook will oversee the Prasad's preparation.

In their defense, Mohini Caterers disclosed that they had ordered 300 boxes of ghee, weighing 15 kg each, from Madhupura Neelkanth Traders of Ahmedabad before the fair commenced. They claimed 120 of these boxes had already been utilized when officials conducted a surprise raid and confiscated three tins of ghee. Reports indicate that the proprietor of Neelkanth Traders is currently evading authorities. Following the incident, an FIR has been lodged against the owner of Mohini Caterers at the Ambaji police station.