Puri: A major controversy has erupted in Puri following the circulation of images showing doormats being sold on the international e-commerce platform ‘AliExpress,’ featuring the revered Chakanaayan—the divine eyes of Lord Jagannath—printed on them.
The situation escalated further after it was alleged that the product image displayed a foot placed directly over the Deity’s eyes, a depiction considered highly offensive and sacrilegious in Jagannath culture.
The image has sparked widespread outrage on social media, drawing sharp criticism from devotees, cultural activists, and concerned citizens.
In response, a local organisation named Badadanda Seba (Regd. No. IN-OD05003443058954U) has filed a complaint with the Singhadwar Police Station, demanding immediate action. The complaint, dated July 15, 2025, was signed by several members of the organisation, including Manoj Kumar Sahoo, Pinky Kumari, and Sunil Kumar Mahapatra.
“We cannot allow our sacred symbols to be disrespected in the name of commerce. Such acts deeply hurt the sentiments of millions of Jagannath devotees across the globe,” the letter stated.
“This cannot be allowed to continue. The company must be shut down, and those responsible should be punished under the law. That is our clear demand,” said Manoj Kumar Sahoo, a representative of Badadanda Seba, while speaking to reporters.
