Man ‘smoking’ inside Bhubaneswar Lingaraj temple sparks online fury

A photograph of a man purportedly smoking within the sacred Lingaraj Temple premises in Bhubaneswar has sparked outrage across social media platforms. The photograph, which was shared on Instagram shows a man in close proximity to the temple's kitchen area, appearing to light a cigarette.

Additional Sub Collector Mahendra Panda informed that till now no written complaint has been filed by the temple authorities or police. However, there is a need to create awareness among people and such incidents need to be investigated. Similarly, we will take necessary steps in this connection, he said.

“Devotees come to the temple to seek blessings. Such incidents are totally not accepted. We will take steps in this regard,”said Panda.

The photograph is said to be of one Debi Prasad Das who is holding a cigarette in his hand and a picture has been clicked.

Social Media Backlash

Numerous social media users condemned the incident after the photograph went viral on social media platforms. Several users termed it a breach of the temple's sanctity. Many individuals have taken to various platforms, expressing their distress and calling for respect towards the religious site.

Controversy Unfolds

This incident has fuelled a heated debate on social media regarding the sanctity of religious places and the behaviour of people and devotees within temple premises. 

Also Read: Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty's photo inside restricted Lingaraj Temple in Odisha sparks controversy

A month back, Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty’s photo from the restricted area inside Sri Lingaraj temple premises in Bhubaneswar went viral on social media. The incident had then hurt the sentiments of devotees in the state.