Bhubaneswar, Jun 25: A storm of controversy has engulfed the upcoming animated film ‘Mahaprabhu Jagannath’, produced by Ele Animations Pvt Ltd, Bhubaneswar, ahead of its scheduled release on July 10, 2026.

The movie, which aims to present the story of Lord Jagannath in an animated format, has drawn sharp criticism from religious leaders and devotees for allegedly distorting sacred narratives.

Puri Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deba issued a strong statement on Thursday, urging the filmmakers to postpone the release until the content is reviewed and authenticated.

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“It has come to my notice that M/s Ele Animations Pvt Ltd, Bhubaneswar, will be releasing an animated movie in Cinema Halls on 10th July 2026 entitled ‘Mahaprabhu Jagannath’. The Official Trailer of this movie, which has been released and is circulating in the social media, portrays a completely fictitious story of Shree Shree Jagannatha Mahaprabhu which is contrary to the sacred narrations in our scriptures,” stated Gajapati Maharaja.

He warned that the trailer, already circulating on social media, portrays a “completely fictitious story” that deviates from the scriptures composed by Maharshi Vedavyasa.

“Any propagation of the glory of Mahaprabhu Shree Jagannatha must conform to the narrations in the scriptures, especially those composed by Maharshi Vedavyasa. A distorted and fictitious presentation of the Glory of Mahaprabhu will hurt the religious sentiments of countless devotees around the world,” Gajapati Maharaja said.

He urged the makers to postpone the release of the movie until the content is authenticated by experts appointed by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration.

“I therefore appeal to the producers of this movie, M/s Ele Animations Pvt Ltd, Bhubaneswar, to postpone the release of this movie in Cinema Halls or on any social media platform until the contents of the movie are authenticated by experts appointed by Shree Jagannatha Temple Administration, Puri,” stated Gajapati Maharaja.

The film, directed by local animation filmmaker Satyajit Mishra, reportedly blends mythological storytelling with modern cinematic techniques. Promotional material suggests that the movie attempts to dramatize lesser-known legends surrounding Lord Jagannath, aiming to appeal to children and global audiences unfamiliar with Odisha’s cultural heritage.

However, critics argue that creative liberties taken in the film risk misrepresenting the sanctity of Jagannath traditions. Religious scholars have emphasized that Jagannath’s story is deeply rooted in scripture and oral traditions, and any deviation could mislead devotees. The controversy has sparked heated debates across Odisha, with many devotees demanding strict scrutiny of the film’s content.

As the release date approaches, the fate of the animated film — “Mahaprabhu Jagannath” — remains uncertain. The producers have yet to issue an official response to Gajapati Maharaja’s appeal, but the growing uproar suggests that the film’s journey to the big screen may face significant hurdles.