Mahaprabhu Jagannath: SC allows theatrical release with a condition

Mahaprabhu Jagannath poster (Pic/X)

The release of Mahaprabhu Jagannath has received relief from the Supreme Court, albeit with a condition. The apex court has permitted the animated film to hit theatres on or after July 28, after the Rath Yatra concludes. The film was previously barred by the Odisha High Court following objections raised over its depiction of Lord Jagannath.

SC permits Mahaprabhu Jagannath release

As per ANI, Supreme Court on Friday refused the immediate release of the animated film Mahaprabhu Jagannath during the Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra and permitted the makers to release it on or after July 28, when the Yatra concludes. "It is an issue of public order. Rituals are coming to an end on the 27th. You release it after that," the court observed.

Addressing the objections raised by the temple administration, the Bench observed, "Your devotion is your own. If you don't like it, you ignore it. The release of the film will not affect your devotion to your God." The Bench also questioned whether an animated children's film could really diminish religious faith.

Why was Mahaprabhu Jagannath banned?

The Odisha High Court had earlier imposed a ban on the film, stating that it did not conform to the Skanda Purana. The makers of the film have filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the verdict of the Odisha High Court.

Senior advocate Devadatt Kamath presented the matter before a bench headed by the Chief Justice of India. He argued that the film is an animated feature made for children and that the ban has caused losses worth crores of rupees to the producers, as 300-odd theatres had been chartered for the film's release.

Kamath said the CBFC had cleared the film and that the same TV series has been available on a YouTube channel for a long time.

The petition filed before the High Court had sought the cancellation of the film's certification and a ban on its public screening in the state, while objecting to the portrayal of Lord Jagannath in the film. It had also sought detailed judicial scrutiny.

The makers also shared an official statement regarding the film and its content. They said, "Mahaprabhu Jagannath is an extension of our animated series Jay Jagannath, created with the utmost honesty, sincerity, and devotion for Lord Jagannath and His devotees."

They further said that they hope the audience gets to watch the film and decide for themselves.