TV
A growing concern has emerged as the sacred Abadha Mahaprasad of Lord Jagannath in Puri is allegedly being sold online without authorisation. A few websites are illegally marketing the revered offering, raising serious questions about regulation, authenticity, and the silence of Srimandir administration.
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According to sources, the Mahaprasad, considered a sacred offering of Lord Jagannath and His Siblings, is being sold online under the name of Puri Jagannath Temple. Websites have been found advertising the holy prasad with images of the shrine to attract buyers.
Adding fuel to the controversy, Items such as Anna (rice), Dali (dal), and Kanika (sweet rice) are being marketed with price tags ranging from Rs 700 to Rs 1,000 per package.
What’s more disturbing is the sale of Sukhili Bhog (dry-offerings) and ‘Khechudi’ (spiced rice dish) as well, all under the label of Srimandir Mahaprasad. This has sparked massive outrage among devotees and cultural custodians, as there is no official online sale mechanism authorised by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA).
Despite the lack of official sanction, these online platforms continue to operate, prompting a flood of unanswered questions: How is this illegal trade happening? Who has permitted it? Who are the people behind this?
A photo which recently went viral on social media shows a list of items—including Abadha, Dali, Dalma, and Saga Besara—being marketed for delivery to two persons. The post claims that once the order is placed, it cannot be cancelled, and deliveries will be made until 10:30 PM on specific weekdays alone.
Furthermore, it mentions that Mahaprasad is supplied only on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. In case of delays due to temple rituals or transportation issues, prior notice will supposedly be given to the customer.
This has led to speculation that the online operators may be employing certain individuals to carry out these activities under the radar. However, a critical question remains: Are devotees receiving the authentic Mahaprasad, or are they being deceived?
Meanwhile, concerns have also resurfaced about the unregulated use of the term ‘Srimandir’ in these transactions. Despite prior announcements that the name and terminology related to the Srimandir would be patented, no legal action seems to have been taken against those misusing it.
Servitors (sebayats) of the temple have long demanded strict laws to protect the sanctity and legal integrity of temple-related words and offerings.
So far, no formal action has been taken or clarification issued by the Srimandir (SJTA) authorities, and the issue has become a matter of faith, legality, and digital ethics.
No comments were received from the SJTA or local police in this regard.
