The Supreme Court has permitted the release of the animated film Mahaprabhu Jagannath, inspired by Lord Jagannath, with the stipulation that it can only be shown following the conclusion of the Rath Yatra festivities. The court’s decision came in response to a challenge against an order from the Orissa High Court that had prohibited the film’s release without prior permission.

The apex court specified that the film could be made available for viewing on or after July 28. During proceedings, the bench highlighted that the film’s release “will not affect your devotion to your God,” addressing concerns raised by temple officials and legal counsel.

The film’s creators had approached the Supreme Court following the Orissa High Court’s last-minute halt of its release, which was originally scheduled for July 17, 2026. Senior Advocate Devadatt Kamat urged for an immediate hearing, though the Chief Justice clarified that same-day listings are reserved for urgent matters, agreeing to consider the case the following day.

Concerns Raised Over Film Content

In submissions made to the Supreme Court, Advocate Kamat argued that the film, aimed at children, fulfilled appropriate guidelines as it had already received clearance from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) under the Cinematograph Act. He contended that the High Court’s order, which surfaced late in the evening, failed to acknowledge the film’s prior certification.

Producers expressed that the prohibition on the film’s release could result in significant financial losses, as substantial investments had already been made and over 300 cinemas had been reserved for screenings. They also mentioned the timings of the public interest litigation that led to the High Court’s decision, emphasising that the order seemed rushed and ill-timed.

During the Supreme Court hearing, it was noted that the CBFC had approved the film. Furthermore, the court acknowledged that the television series upon which the film is based had been available on YouTube for nearly two years, suggesting that the public had prior exposure to its content.

Public Interest Litigation and Deviations from Tradition

The previous High Court ruling on July 15 indicated the significance of protecting freedom of speech while cautioning against potential disruptions to religious sentiments. The court stressed that releasing the film amidst ongoing Rath Yatra rituals could be detrimental unless suggested changes following a special screening were implemented.

A Division Bench of the Orissa High Court, led by Chief Justice Harish Tandon, examined a public interest litigation that sought to revoke the certificate granted by the CBFC and stop the film’s exhibition across the state. This petition was submitted by several individuals, including Mahesh Kumar Sahu and Dr Pramod Kumar Acharya, who argued that their concerns stemmed from the film’s content.

The petitioners accused the film of misrepresenting vital cultural and religious narratives associated with Lord Jagannath. They voiced concerns regarding fictional portrayals that contradicted religious texts and rituals, claiming these depictions could damage the beliefs of devotees and potentially incite unrest.

In response to the ongoing dispute, Ele Animations stated on July 16 that they approached the film’s creation with utmost sincerity and devotion, aspiring to depict the essence of Lord Jagannath respectfully. Their statement emphasised the film’s educational purpose and its U certification by the CBFC in several languages.

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