Bhubaneswar, Dec 2: YouTuber Shubhankar Mishra on Tuesday issued a public apology for his controversial remarks about the Puri Jagannath Temple, saying the claims made in his video were based on content already circulating online and not his own creation.

In a clarification video posted on his official YouTube channel, Mishra said the disputed content was part of his “Bhakti Book” initiative, which aims to share untold temple histories, lesser-known stories of revered saints and folklore linked to Sanatan Dharma. “For this, we take the view of an expert or use stories based on prevalent or already published folklore or beliefs,” he said.

Calling himself a long-time devotee of Lord Jagannath, Mishra said he frequently visits Puri and admires the “Prasad, the vibe and the air of the place.”

Addressing the controversy, Mishra said the story narrated in his video was sourced from “countless reputed news websites and YouTube channels,” which led his team to assume it was credible. “But the moment my friends from Puri informed me that this is not an official or verified story in Jagannath scriptures, I immediately took down the video. My intention was never to hurt anybody’s sentiments,” he said. “If I have hurt the sentiments of anybody — my Odia brothers and sisters — I convey my deepest apology.”

Context of Controversy
The backlash erupted after Mishra claimed in a video that unmarried couples who visit the Jagannath Temple may face breakups, citing an alleged “curse” by Radha Rani. The claim — that Radha was once denied entry into the shrine — has no basis in Jagannath scriptures or official records.

Puri Collector Dibya Jyoti Parida said on November 29 that the district administration was examining the issue of misleading statements related to the temple following Mishra’s viral video.

The matter escalated further on November 30 when senior servitor Gourahari Pradhan filed a complaint at the Singhadwar police station, accusing Mishra of spreading misinformation about the shrine and Lord Jagannath.

Also Read: Puri Collector Reacts to Subhankar Mishra's Claims on Jagannath Temple

Mishra’s comments triggered widespread criticism across Odisha, with many demanding accountability for promoting unverified narratives about one of the state’s most sacred temples.