Nandini takes the helm as ghee supplier for Tirupati Laddoos: All you need to know about South India's 'Amul'

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) has appointed Nandini as the new supplier of ghee for its iconic laddoos.

This decision comes on the heels of a controversy surrounding allegations of adulteration in the temple’s offerings, that started with Andra Pradesh CM Naidhu who alleged that animal fat and other questionable substances were found in the ghee used to make the laddoos.

A trusted name in South India

Nandini is a household name across South India, comparable to the stature of Amul and Mother Dairy in the North.


The brand is owned by the Karnataka Cooperative Milk Producers' Federation Limited (KMF), which stands as the largest dairy cooperative in Karnataka and the second largest in India, just behind Gujarat’s Amul.

Known for its quality dairy products, Nandini has built a loyal customer base not only in Karnataka but also in neighboring states like Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Goa.

Leadership behind the brand

At the helm of KMF is MK Jagdish, a seasoned Karnataka Administrative Service officer who has been instrumental in steering the federation toward success.

Under his leadership, KMF has prioritised maintaining high standards and expanding its product offerings, making Nandini a formidable player in the dairy market.

A rich history

KMF's story began in 1955 with the establishment of its first dairy cooperative in the Kodagu district of Karnataka.

Back then, there was no system of packaged milk; farmers delivered their product directly to consumers, often facing significant shortages.

The situation began to change with India's 'White Revolution' in the 1970s, a nationwide campaign aimed at increasing milk production, bolstered by support from World Bank projects.

In 1974, the Karnataka government took a major step by creating the Karnataka Dairy Development Corporation (KDCC) to implement these initiatives.

A decade later, KDCC transformed into the Karnataka Milk Federation, launching the Nandini brand.

This shift marked a turning point, allowing KMF to sell packaged milk and other dairy products. Over time, Nandini flourished into Karnataka's most popular dairy brand and expanded its reach throughout South India.

As Nandini steps into its role as the ghee supplier for Tirupati laddoos, the partnership represents a renewed commitment to quality and tradition at the sacred temple.