The Supreme Court has ruled against the immediate release of the animated film Mahaprabhu Jagannath during the ongoing Rath Yatra festival of Lord Jagannath. However, the court has permitted the filmmakers to release the movie on or after July 28, once the festival concludes.
During the proceedings, the Supreme Court issued notices to the central government, the Odisha government, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), and the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, among others. This came while hearing an appeal against an interim order from the Orissa High Court that had paused the film’s release.
Previously, the Orissa High Court had blocked the film’s nationwide release, stating that it did not completely follow the Skanda Purana, a significant religious text. This decision was made just one day before the film was expected to hit theaters, prompting the producers to seek urgent relief from the Supreme Court.
Senior Advocate Devadatt Kamat, representing the filmmakers, emphasized the film’s educational purpose, noting that it is an animated feature aimed primarily at children and focuses on the teachings and life of Lord Jagannath. He pointed out that the CBFC had already certified the film as suitable for audiences, allowing it to be screened in Hindi, Odia, and Telugu.
Kamat also expressed concern over the timing of the High Court’s order, which was issued just before the planned release, leaving the producers little time to respond or make legal appeals. With significant financial investments planned for over 300 theaters across the country, the creators were keen on getting the film released.
While the Supreme Court denied the request for a release during the Rath Yatra, it has now allowed Mahaprabhu Jagannath to be released on or after July 28, pending any further rulings on the matter.
