Puri, July 9: Allegations of discrimination and commercialization in the distribution of Mahaprasad at the revered Jagannath Temple in Puri have drawn national attention, following a formal complaint submitted to the Prime Minister’s Office by Manish Kapoor, a resident of Mumbai.
Kapoor, deeply disturbed by what he described as the "indescribable suffering" of poor devotees, claimed that only those with money are able to access Mahaprasad. According to his complaint, economically disadvantaged pilgrims are being forced to leave hungry, merely watching the distribution from a distance.
In response, the Odisha State Law Department has taken swift action. Joint Secretary Anshuman Mohanty has issued a show-cause notice to the Chief Administrator of the Jagannath Temple, demanding an explanation regarding the allegations. He has also directed that appropriate corrective measures be undertaken without delay.
Kapoor alleged that the temple administration has allowed the commercialization of Mahaprasad, with its distribution restricted to servitors and their appointed sellers. He further claimed that black marketing of the sacred food is also taking place, turning a spiritual offering into a profit-driven enterprise.
"Lord Jagannath is worshipped as Patitapaban- the redeemer of the downtrodden," Kapoor stated. "It is disheartening to see poor devotees who travel from distant places—often by foot or train—being denied access to this sacred tradition due to lack of money."
The complaint has sparked widespread discussion over the role of the temple administration and the need for inclusive access to religious offerings. Kapoor has urged authorities to protect the temple’s cultural and spiritual legacy by ensuring justice, transparency, and equality in its daily operations.
The matter remains under review, with further action expected pending the temple administration’s response to the show-cause notice.
