Puri, Oct 16: The online sale of Mahaprasad, the sacred offering of Lord Jagannath, has triggered widespread outrage after advertisements surfaced on food delivery platforms like Swiggy and Zomato, promoting doorstep delivery of Mahaprasad for as low as Rs50.
Social media promotions claimed that consumers could now order Mahaprasad online and have it delivered to their homes- a move that has drawn sharp criticism from servitors of the Shree Jagannath Temple and several intellectuals. They allege that such practices demean the sanctity and spiritual significance of the offering, which is deeply revered by millions of devotees.
Following public outcry, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration has taken serious note of the issue. Temple Chief Administrator Jitendra Kumar Sahu clarified that no individual or organization has been authorized to sell Mahaprasad through any online platform.
"The temple administration has not given any permission for online sale or delivery of Mahaprasad. Strict legal action will be taken against those involved in such unauthorized and illegal activities," said Sahu.
Sources from the temple administration confirmed that instructions have been issued to initiate legal proceedings against the apps involved. Steps are also being taken to remove all related advertisements from social media platforms.
The incident has reignited debates around preserving the sanctity of religious offerings and preventing their commercialization through unregulated digital platforms.
