Supreme Court Denies Immediate Release of 'Mahaprabhu Jagannath' Animated Film

The Supreme Court has ruled against the immediate release of the animated film 'Mahaprabhu Jagannath' during the ongoing Rath Yatra, permitting its release only after July 28. This decision follows concerns raised about the film's portrayal of Lord Jagannath, leading to a halt in its screening. The controversy stems from a public interest litigation questioning the film's adherence to traditional depictions. As the filmmakers await a new release date, the court's decision highlights the intersection of art and religious sentiment in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 17, 2026, 12:32 IST

Supreme Court's Decision on Film Release

On Friday, July 17, the Supreme Court declined to allow the immediate release of the animated film 'Mahaprabhu Jagannath' during the ongoing Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath. However, the court granted permission for the film to be released after the annual festival concludes, specifically on or after July 28. The Supreme Court issued notices to the central government, the Odisha government, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), the administration of the Jagannath temple, and other involved parties. These notices were part of an appeal challenging the interim order from the Odisha High Court that had imposed a ban on the film's release.

Screening of 'Mahaprabhu Jagannath' in Delhi Postponed

According to reports, the High Court had previously halted the film's release, citing concerns regarding the portrayal of Lord Jagannath. The court deemed that a thorough judicial review was necessary before the film could be screened. Originally, the film was set to debut in theaters on July 17, and its screening in Delhi, scheduled for Thursday, July 16, was also postponed. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India N.V. Ramana and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohan agreed to hear the petition challenging the High Court's order. Senior lawyer Devdutt Kamat, representing the filmmakers, requested an urgent hearing, suggesting that the matter be addressed on Thursday, but the bench scheduled it for Friday.

Controversy Surrounding 'Mahaprabhu Jagannath'

The interim order from the High Court arose during the hearing of a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by Mahesh Kumar Sahu from Angul, Dr. Pramod Kumar Acharya from Puri, and Umashankar Acharya from Nimapada. The petitioners sought the cancellation of the film's CBFC certificate and a ban on its public screening in Odisha. The PIL raised objections to the fictional depiction of Lord Jagannath's childhood, dialogues, adventurous exploits, and battle scenes. According to reports, the petition claimed that these portrayals do not align with the traditions outlined in the Skanda Purana, Brahma Purana, and the ancient customs associated with the Jagannath temple. The High Court had previously stated that the film allegedly did not adhere strictly to the religious texts of the Skanda Purana, leading to the interim ban on its release until further hearings. Directed by Sripad Warkhedkar and produced by Ele Animations, the new release date for 'Mahaprabhu Jagannath' is expected to be announced soon.