Legal Hurdle Ends, Mahaprabhu Jagannath Set for Nationwide Release

Bhubaneswar:  The much-awaited animated feature film Mahaprabhu Jagannath is set for a nationwide release after the Supreme Court cleared all legal hurdles, allowing the film to hit theatres following the Rath Yatra.

The apex court ruled in favour of the production house after hearing a petition related to the film, permitting its release across the country, after the conclusion of the annual Rath Yatra festivities.

During the proceedings, the court observed that animation cannot undermine or hurt the religious devotion of people, paving the way for the release of the film based on Lord Jagannath’s life and legacy.

The verdict comes as a major relief for the filmmakers, ending the uncertainty surrounding the project. The production house, Elli Animations, said the film has been created to present the culture, traditions and spiritual heritage of Lord Jagannath to children and young audiences through modern animation while preserving its religious essence.

The filmmakers said the objective is to introduce Jagannath culture to a wider global audience using contemporary storytelling and technology. They added that despite criticism and legal challenges, the team remained committed to completing the project.

Welcoming the verdict, Elli Animations expressed gratitude to the Supreme Court and said the judgment would help spread the message of Jagannath culture, devotion and humanity to audiences across India and abroad. The production house also expressed hope that the film would further enhance global awareness of Odisha’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.