Why is Mahaprabhu Jagannath banned? What is the controversy surrounding the animated movie?

The animated film Mahaprabhu Jagannath has landed in a major controversy after facing a ban in Odisha and strong opposition from several religious groups. The film, based on the life and legacy of Lord Jagannath, has triggered outrage over its portrayal of the revered deity, with many alleging that it hurts religious sentiments and misrepresents sacred traditions. Let’s find out what the film is about and why it has triggered a massive controversy.

What Is Mahaprabhu Jagannath About?

Mahaprabhu Jagannath is an animated feature inspired by the mythology and spiritual significance of Lord Jagannath, one of Hinduism’s most worshipped deities. The film explores the origins of the Jagannath tradition, the cultural heritage of Puri and the devotion surrounding the annual Rath Yatra. The makers have described their movie as an attempt to introduce younger audiences to India’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy through animation.

Why Has The Film Sparked Controversy?

The controversy erupted after several scenes from the film circulated online, which disappointed religious organisations. It has been alleged that certain sequences in the movie depict Lord Jagannath in a manner that is inconsistent with established religious beliefs and temple traditions.

Reportedly, some groups have also questioned the creative liberties taken in the storytelling, arguing that sacred figures should not be fictionalised or altered for cinematic purposes.

As the objections gained momentum on social media, many users demanded that the film be withdrawn until the alleged objectionable scenes were removed.

Plea Against Movie In Odisha High Court

Later, a plea was also filed in the Odisha High Court opposing the movie. As reported by Verdictum.in, the petitioners told the High Court that Mahaprabhu Jagannath shows Lord Jagannath in ways that do not match accepted religious beliefs or traditions. They said the controversy began after the film’s teaser was released on YouTube, leading to protests across Odisha, including from the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration.

The film was later screened for the Temple Administration and the Gajapati Maharaja of Puri, who reportedly raised several objections. According to the petitioners, the producer promised to make changes but released the film without making major corrections.

Odisha High Court Stays Release Of Film

Later, the High Court ordered a stay on the release of the film and stated that the freedom of expression cannot hurt anybody’s religious beliefs. “At times it creates an immediate influence and at times may shatter the sentiments, the emotions and the religious belief, which cannot be allowed, if it results in unrest in the peaceful society. The motive to release the film may also be one of the facet to be borne in mind at a particular point of time, which may invite an immediate and prompt reaction having cascading effect, that would corrode the fabric resultantly affecting the peace in the society,” a bench of Chief Justice Harish Tandon and Justice Murahari Sri Raman observed.

What Do The Makers Say?

The makers have maintained that Mahaprabhu Jagannath was created with respect for Lord Jagannath and was never intended to offend religious sentiments. They have now moved the Supreme Court against the stay on the film.

“The film is a heartfelt depiction of a devotee’s bhav (devotion) towards Mahaprabhu Jagannath, and we make no claim otherwise. We deeply respect the sentiments of every devotee and everyone who follows the path of Lord Jagannath. We simply hope audiences get the opportunity to watch the film and decide for themselves. This Rath Yatra, our wish is for the film to reach children and families and bring them closer to learning more about Lord Jagannath and imbibe the culture and values. We have made this film giving our heart, soul and with pure intentions to celebrate faith, culture and devotion,” the makers said.