'Mahaprabhu Jagannath' makers challenge Odisha High Court's ban on the film, knock the doors of apex court
Mumbai, July 16
The makers of the upcoming film 'Mahaprabhu Jagannath' have approached the Supreme Court, and challenged the Odisha High Court's verdict with regards to the release of the film.
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 crores of rupees in losses to the producers.
The makers also shared an official statement with regards to 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 mentioned that they hope the audience gets to watch the film, and decide for themselves.
They went on, "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 film has received U certification from the CBFC in Hindi, Odia and Telugu and we have filed a review petition before the Hon'ble Supreme Court. As the matter is currently sub judice, we will refrain from commenting further and place our faith in the judicial process", they added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I'm not Hindu, but I appreciate the cultural significance. It seems harsh to ban a film that already got a U certificate from CBFC. Let the courts decide based on facts, not just tradition.
Yaar, this is ridiculous. Skanda Purana is ancient text, but films are artistic interpretations. My kids loved the Jay Jagannath series - it taught them our culture in a fun way. High Court should have allowed release with disclaimers. 😤
I have mixed feelings. While I respect judicial process, the ban seems too drastic for an animated film. That said, the makers should also be more careful - our religious texts aren't something to play with for profit. Crores loss is unfortunate but devotion shouldn't be commercialised.
Interesting case. I hope the Supreme Court balances religious sensitivities with freedom of expression. Animated films can help preserve culture for younger generations, but accuracy matters.
As an Odia, I feel the High Court overstepped. Our traditions are alive, not frozen in one text. Let the film release - if there's any deviation, people will reject it themselves. Courts shouldn't be censorship boards for devotion. Jai Jagannath! 🙌
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.