Supreme Court Greenlights Mahaprabhu Jagannath’s Release Post-Rath Yatra, Questions Odisha HC Ban

The Supreme Court has made a significant ruling regarding the animated film “Mahaprabhu Jagannath,” denying its immediate release during the ongoing Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra. However, the court has allowed the filmmakers to release the movie on or after July 28, once the annual festival concludes. This decision comes after the Orissa High Court had previously stayed the film’s release, citing concerns over its adherence to religious texts.

High Court’s Stay on Release

The Orissa High Court had issued an interim order that halted the nationwide release of “Mahaprabhu Jagannath,” stating that the film did not strictly follow the religious text of the Skanda Purana. This ruling was announced just a day before the film was set to hit theaters, causing significant disruption for the filmmakers. In response, the creators of the film sought urgent relief from the Supreme Court, challenging the High Court’s decision.

Filmmakers Seek Urgent Relief

Senior Advocate Devadatt Kamat represented the filmmakers in the Supreme Court, emphasizing the urgency of the matter. He argued that “Mahaprabhu Jagannath” is an animated film primarily aimed at children, focusing on the life and legacy of Lord Jagannath. Kamat pointed out that the High Court’s stay was based solely on the film’s alleged non-compliance with the Skanda Purana. He also noted that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) had already granted the film a U certificate, allowing its release in Hindi, Odia, and Telugu.

Kamat further highlighted the timing of the High Court’s order, which was uploaded at 9 PM on the eve of the scheduled release. This left the producers with minimal time to seek legal remedies. The filmmakers have invested substantial amounts in the project and had planned screenings in over 300 theaters across the country. Kamat described the High Court’s decision as rushed, given that the Public Interest Litigation leading to the stay was heard shortly before the release date.

Supreme Court’s Decision and Next Steps

While the Supreme Court declined to allow the film’s release during the Rath Yatra, it issued notices to the Centre, the Odisha government, the CBFC, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, and other relevant parties regarding the appeal against the High Court’s interim order. With this latest direction, “Mahaprabhu Jagannath” is now set to be released in theaters on or after July 28, pending any further orders in the case.

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