Archive · 29 Jul 2026
Supreme Court Allows Release of Mahaprabhu Jagannath Film
The Supreme Court of India decided not to stop the release of an animated film about Lord Jagannath.
Some people, including a temple trust, were upset because they thought the film showed the deity in a way that was not respectful.
The court said that artistic freedom is important and that such objections should not stop creative works.
The film is meant for children and has been certified by the Central Board of Film Certification.
The court also noted that the producer did not promise to change the film as claimed by the temple trust.
The Supreme Court refused to ban the release of the animated film Mahaprabhu Jagannath.
The court dismissed applications seeking to modify its earlier order allowing the film's release after the Rath Yatra on July 28.
Justice Nagarathna emphasized that artistic expression should not be curtailed over religious sensitivity.
The temple trust and a devotee objected to the depiction of Lord Jagannath in animated form.
The producer denied giving any assurance to modify the film as claimed by the temple trust.
- Who
- The Supreme Court of India
- What
- Refused to halt the release of the animated film Mahaprabhu Jagannath
- When
- July 17, 2026
- Where
- India
- Why
- To uphold artistic freedom and creativity, rejecting objections based on religious sensitivity
Religious Sensitivity
Artistic Freedom
Depiction of Lord Jagannath
Religious Sensitivity
The temple trust and devotees argue that depicting Lord Jagannath in animated form is offensive and inconsistent with religious traditions.
Artistic Freedom
The Supreme Court and the producer argue that artistic expression should not be curtailed over religious sensitivity, especially since the film is intended for children.
Modification of the Film
Religious Sensitivity
The temple trust claims the producer promised to modify the film to address their concerns but did not do so.
Artistic Freedom
The producer denies giving any assurance to modify the film and argues that the temple committee members walked out of the screening.
- Film Title
- Mahaprabhu Jagannath
- Release Date
- July 28, 2026
- Court Decision Date
- July 17, 2026
- Petitioners
- Temple trust and a devotee
- Producer
- Ele Animations Pvt Ltd
- CBFC Certification
- Certified