Viral photos expose sanctum sanctorum of Puri Jagannath temple again

Photos allegedly taken from inside the sanctum sanctorum of Jagannath temple in Puri town have garnered significant attention on different social media platforms, sparking debates concerning the 12th Century shrine’s security, sources said on Sunday.

According to the sources, a devotee, identified as Banke Bihari Ananta, posted these photos on his Instagram account. Despite strict regulations restricting mobile phones within the Vaishnavite temple, these photos are suspected to have been taken from the Natamandir, an area in the close vicinity of the temple’s sanctum sanctorum.

Also Read: Puri Jagannath Temple inner courtyard pictures leaked online, go viral on social media

The photos include visuals of Kirtan Chakada and views associated with Patitapabana, visuals that draw both intrigue and concern regarding how such prohibitions are being circumvented. This incident prompts an evaluation of the effectiveness of current measures in place to preserve the sanctity and security of the holiest site of Hindu religion.

Repeated occurrences of such leaks raise questions about the enforcement of the temple’s long-standing ban on photography. As the temple administration and local police probe yet another breach, several devotees, Jagannath cult followers, and temple servitors remain focused on safeguarding the traditions and privacy of the revered shrine.

Earlier in another incident, photos from inside the temple, specifically Kirtan Chakada, were shared on social media by a youth causing them to go viral. The incident came to the fore on January 12, after the pictures started circulating widely among netizens.

Must Read: Unidentified drone spotted hovering over Puri Jagannath Temple, sparks security concerns

Based on the social media reshares, the accused had been traced back to a youth identified as Gaurav Kumar Sahu from Odisha. Police took note of the matter seriously and started a detailed probe into the allegation but did not share any further information.

Allegedly, despite a ban on cameras, mobile phones, and other electronic gadgets within the temple premises, high-resolution cameras are being used to capture the photos.