Puri, Odisha: A viral video showing a priest serving Mahaprasad (the sacred offering of Lord Jagannath) to a family seated at a dining table in a beach resort has triggered widespread outrage among devotees and temple authorities in Odisha. The incident, which appears to deviate from long-standing customs of consuming the holy food while seated on the ground, has prompted a formal response from the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA).
The video shows at least 10 people, including children, seated at a dining table as a priest serves them Mahaprasad. When confronted by a bystander in the video, a woman claimed they had checked before proceeding, while the priest was asked why he allowed such a breach of tradition.
Have a look at the video here:
The Mahaprasad is not just food, it is considered divine, worshipped in the form of Annabrahma and steeped in centuries-old tradition. As per the customs of the Jagannath Temple, it must be consumed while sitting on the ground, reflecting humility and devotion.
In response to the controversy, the SJTA stated that the video had āevoked strong reactionsā from devotees. In its official clarification, the temple administration said, āThe divine Mahaprasad of the Lord is worshipped in the form of Annabrahma. The ritual tradition of eating Mahaprasad sitting on the ground has existed since time immemorial.ā
Acknowledging the religious sensitivities involved, the SJTA has issued an advisory to hotels and resorts in Puri to discourage guests from consuming Mahaprasad in ways that violate temple traditions. They urged all devotees to ārefrain from activities against the tradition,ā emphasising respect for the sanctity of the offering.
The video has since drawn criticism on social media, with many calling for greater awareness and enforcement of spiritual customs tied to Indiaās sacred spaces.
