Disrespect to Mahaprasad Sparks Outrage in Puri
Odia tourist seen eating sacred food with footwear on at hotel dining, draws sharp criticism
Bhubaneswar, May 18: A controversy erupted in Puri after a video surfaced showing an Odia tourist eating Mahaprasad—the sacred offering of Lord Jagannath—while wearing slippers inside the dining area of a star hotel. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, with many calling it a blatant disrespect to the sanctity of Mahaprasad, which is deeply revered by millions of Hindus.
The video reportedly shows the individual seated at a dining table in the hotel, consuming Mahaprasad with footwear on, a practice seen as highly inappropriate and against the religious and cultural norms associated with the holy offering. What has further intensified public anger is the fact that the tourist is himself an Odia—someone expected to be aware of the deep spiritual significance of Mahaprasad.
A Brahmin priest who was present during the incident has also expressed concern over the disregard shown toward the sacred food. “Just as having darshan of Lord Jagannath grants spiritual merit, so does partaking Mahaprasad. It is not just food—it is divine,” he said.
Social media users and religious devotees alike have condemned the act, calling for awareness and stricter observance of rituals associated with Mahaprasad. Many argue that being Odia and still showing such disrespect to Lord Jagannath’s offering is deeply unfortunate and sets a bad example for tourists and devotees.
While no official action has yet been reported, the incident has sparked fresh conversations around the need for preserving sanctity and traditions at religious sites and in relation to sacred practices like Mahaprasad consumption.
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