Bhubaneswar, 25 June (H.S.): Puri Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb on Thursday expressed strong reservations over the upcoming animated film Mahaprabhu Jagannath, alleging that its storyline deviates from the scriptural and traditional accounts associated with Lord Jagannath.

In a statement, the Gajapati Maharaja noted that the film’s official trailer has been widely circulated on social media and appears to portray a narrative that is entirely fictional. He said the depiction shown in the trailer is inconsistent with the sacred descriptions of Lord Jagannath found in religious texts and established traditions.

Emphasising the sanctity of Lord Jagannath and the need to preserve the authenticity of the deity’s legacy, the Gajapati Maharaja asserted that any portrayal of Mahaprabhu should strictly adhere to scriptural references. He cautioned that fictional or distorted representations could hurt the religious sentiments of millions of devotees in India and across the world.

The Gajapati Maharaja has urged the concerned authorities and filmmakers to review the content of the film before its release to ensure that it remains respectful of religious beliefs and traditions associated with the Jagannath culture.

As of now, the filmmakers have not issued any official response to the objections raised by the Gajapati Maharaja.

According to available information, Mahaprabhu Jagannath is scheduled for theatrical release on July 10.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda