Supreme Court to Hear Appeal Against Mahaprabhu Jagannath Film Ban

Controversy Surrounds Mahaprabhu Jagannath Film

The animated feature film Mahaprabhu Jagannath, which focuses on Lord Jagannath, has encountered significant hurdles despite receiving approval from the Central Board of Film Certification. Set for release on July 17, 2026, the film has been banned nationwide by the Orissa High Court, which ruled that it did not adhere to the guidelines outlined in the ‘Skanda Purana’. In response to this ruling, the film's producers have approached the Supreme Court to contest the High Court's decision. Senior Advocate Devadatt Kamat urgently presented the case to the Chief Justice of India, seeking an immediate hearing.

Supreme Court Hearing Scheduled for Tomorrow

Following the lawyer's request, Chief Justice Surya Kant opted not to schedule the hearing for today but promised to address the issue tomorrow, given the film's impending release. According to reports, Kamat emphasized that Mahaprabhu Jagannath is a children's film centered around Lord Jagannath and highlighted that the CBFC had already granted it a certificate in accordance with Section 5 of the Cinematograph Act. He noted that the High Court's ban order was issued on July 15 at 9 PM.

Kamat further argued that the ban would cause significant harm to the film's producer, who has invested substantial funds into the project. The animated film is set to be screened in over 300 theaters. The public interest litigation that led to the High Court's decision was filed just before the film's release. The Chief Justice remarked that same-day hearings are typically reserved for extremely urgent cases, such as death penalty appeals.

Details of the Orissa High Court's Ruling

On July 15, the Orissa High Court ordered a halt to the release of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, stating that while freedom of speech is constitutionally protected, it should not infringe upon religious sentiments. The film's teaser and content faced criticism from devotees and the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, among others. During a special screening attended by the Gajapati Maharaja of Puri and Temple officials, numerous objections were raised regarding the film's portrayals. The Supreme Court is set to hear the case tomorrow, and the filmmakers are anxiously awaiting the court's decision regarding the film's release. Stay tuned for further updates!