SC agrees to hear plea challenging release of animated film 'Mahaprabhu Jagannath'
The Supreme Court of India has agreed to hear a plea from the Odisha government seeking to block the release of the animated film 'Mahaprabhu Jagannath'. The state government argues that the film's release could incite law and order issues despite the film receiving prior clearance from the CBFC.
Why it matters
This case underscores the tension between creative freedom, regulatory certification, and state-level concerns regarding religious sentiments and public order.
The Supreme Court agreed to hear on Tuesday (July 28, 2026) a plea by the Odisha government challenging the release of animated film 'Mahaprabhu Jagannath' after it was granted screening clearance by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
The court noted the Odisha government's contention that the release would cause a law and order situation in the State.
Earlier, a Bench of Justices B.V. Nagarathna and R. Mahadevan permitted the all-India release of the animated film on or after July 28 post Lord Jagannath Yatra festivities.
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