A fresh controversy has erupted at the revered Puri Srimandir following allegations that 70 sacred modaks prepared for Lord Jagannath went missing from the temple’s secure storage before the ritual offering. The incident has sparked public outrage and raised serious questions about internal temple protocols.
Jagannath culture researcher Prafulla Rath has alleged that the stolen modaks were intended for use in Digha, drawing parallels to a previous incident involving stolen wood for idol installation. Rath’s claims suggest a possible link between the two episodes, intensifying scrutiny on temple security.
SJTA Chief Administrator, Arabinda Padhee, acknowledged the complaint and confirmed that an internal investigation is underway. However, he emphasised that preliminary findings do not substantiate the theft claims. “The inquiry is based on allegations by the badagrahi (ritual servitor), but no conclusive evidence has emerged yet,” Padhee stated. He also cautioned against public discussion of the temple’s confidential rituals.
Odisha’s Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan dismissed the theft allegations, calling them an attempt by some individuals to gain attention. “There has been no theft. The Chief Administrator has clarified the matter,” he said, adding that modaks are not counted individually, making such claims speculative.
The incident reportedly occurred on the night of June 21, when 313 amuniya modaks were brought under security escort and stored in the temple’s garada ghara (storehouse). However, during the ritual on June 22, only 243 modaks were found, prompting the badagrahi to file a formal complaint.
While the temple administration awaits CCTV footage analysis, the issue has stirred debate among devotees and cultural observers. Senior servitor Ganesh Mahasuara termed the incident a serious breach of ritual sanctity.
As the investigation continues, the temple administration has yet to issue a formal statement addressing the broader implications of the alleged theft. The matter remains under close watch, with further developments expected in the coming days.
