‘Disrespectful immersion’ of Lord Jagannath idol in sea, video sparks outrage

A deeply disturbing video circulating on social media triggered widespread outrage among devotees on Thursday after an idol of Lord Jagannath was found floating in the sea and rescued in a highly pitiable condition.

Also Read: Shocking neglect of idols of 'Chaturdha Murti' in Puri sparks outrage

The purported video, which many viewers have found painful to watch, shows a group of young men retrieving the idol from the water and bringing it to the shore.

The video allegedly shows the sacred idol drifting in the sea before being pulled out. While the rescue itself brought relief, the manner in which the idol was handled has raised serious concerns.

The youths involved are seen dragging the idol casually, without the reverence traditionally associated with Lord Jagannath, revered as Daru Brahma by millions of devotees.

Several troubling questions have emerged: Who immersed the sacred idol in the sea? Why was the revered wooden form of Lord Jagannath discarded into the water? And even after its recovery, why was the idol not treated with due dignity and respect?

According to initial assumptions, the viral video is believed to have been recorded along the Puri sea coast. The incident has sparked emotional reactions online, with many demanding accountability and greater respect for religious sentiments.

No comments were received from Srimandir authorities or the local police in this regard.

Worth mentioning, earlier in another incident, the idols of ‘Chaturdha Murti’, Mahaprabhu Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Goddess Subhadra and Lord Sudarshan, were found on July 13 abandoned in a neglected state at Jagannath Ballav parking area in Puri.