Puri, July 29: A wave of controversy was sparked after it was discovered that the Chinese e-commerce platform, AliExpress, is selling doormats featuring the image of Lord Jagannath.
This has caused widespread outrage, especially in Odisha, where the incident has deeply offended the religious sentiments of devotees.
The controversial product features an image of Lord Jagannath's face printed on a doormat intended for wiping feet. The advertisement adds to the outrage by showing a person standing on the mat.
To make matters worse, the listing describes the mat with highly offensive language, claiming it is anti-slip and moisture-absorbent, which has only further angered devotees of Lord Jagannath.
Devotees have strongly condemned the depiction of Lord Jagannath on the doormat and called for immediate action. They also urged the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) to notify both the state and central governments about this disrespectful portrayal.
“I strongly condemn the depiction of Lord Jagannath on a doormat. It is deeply disrespectful and hurtful to our religious sentiments. We must ensure that such products are not sold or promoted further,” said a devotee.
Experts recommended initiating diplomatic discussions with the country where the company is based, to halt the sale and promotion of such offensive products.
