SC upholds Orissa HC’s stay on ‘Mahaprabhu Jagannath’ animated film’s release till Rath Yatra ends

Supreme Court has upheld the Orissa High Court ’s interim order staying the release of animated film ‘Mahaprabhu Jagannath’. The apex court ruled that the film cannot be released until the conclusion of annual Rath Yatra, official sources said on Friday. Also Read: Social media influencers, filmmakers may face action; stricter laws under consideration: Gajapati Maharaja During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta represented the Odisha government, while Advocate General Pitambar Acharya appeared on behalf of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) , Puri. The case stems from allegations that the film misrepresents and distorts the typical culture, rituals, traditions, and religious practices associated with the State’s most revered deity, Lord Jagannath. The petition challenging the film’s release was filed by Mahesh Sahu, a member of Srimandir Managing Committee. The petitioner argued that certain portrayals in the film could hurt the religious sentiments of devotees and undermine the sanctity of traditions linked to the 12th century-old Vaishnavite shrine. Taking note of these concerns, the Supreme Court declined to interfere with the High Court’s interim order, ensuring that the stay on the film’s release will continue until the Rath Yatra festivities are over. Worth mentioning, earlier on July 14, Gajapati Maharaja Dibya Singha Deb had said that social media influencers, filmmakers and others accused of misrepresenting Lord Jagannath’s traditions and culture could face legal action. Odisha government has plans to amend the Puri Jagannath Temple laws and enact a new set of rules. The proposed changes are expected to introduce provisions for fines and imprisonment against those found guilty of spreading misinformation in the name of Jagannath culture. In an exclusive interaction with OTV, the Gajapati Maharaja had said the amendments are aimed at ensuring that Jagannath culture is presented accurately and responsibly. He noted that while awareness about the traditions of Lord Jagannath has increased, instances of misleading or distorted representations have also become more common, particularly through social media and other public platforms. “As we have observed, there is less actual and correct promotion of the Lord and more misrepresentation. The State government is considering an amendment to the Jagannath Temple laws. This will include certain enabling provisions so that anyone who misrepresents the culture of the Lord can be held punishable,” the Lords’ first servitor stated. “Administrative or legal action can be taken. This will apply to any individual, filmmaker, or social media influencer. Once it is incorporated into the new law, it will be applicable to everyone,” the Gajapati Maharaja added.