A photo of Bollywood actress Sushmita Sen inside Bhubaneswar’s sacred Shree Lingaraj Temple has ignited controversy, raising fresh concerns over VIP privilege and selective enforcement of the temple’s strict no-phone, no-photography policy.
The image, reportedly captured by a temple servitor during Sen’s recent visit and later circulated on social media, drew backlash from devotees and heritage activists who condemned the breach of rules at the 11th-century protected monument.
Rudra Prasad Mohanty, Executive Officer of the temple and Additional District Magistrate, acknowledged the gravity of the violation, stating that the matter would be taken up with the Lingaraj Temple Trust Board.
Senior servitor Biranchi Narayan Pati labeled the incident as “unfortunate” and emphasized the need to tighten surveillance to maintain the temple’s sanctity.
The episode mirrors a similar incident in October 2024, when actress Shilpa Shetty filmed her temple visit, resulting in a show-cause notice against an official. These repeat violations have intensified allegations of preferential treatment for celebrities, undermining the spiritual discipline expected of all visitors.
Devotees expressed outrage, insisting that such double standards disrespect regular worshippers who diligently follow the rules. Many are now demanding uniform enforcement of temple policies to preserve the dignity of this historic and sacred site.
