Bhubaneswar: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) authorities have apologised to devotees and stopped selling calendars featuring an image of the sibling deities – Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and Lord Jagannath – in incorrect positions.
The image, part of the 2026 calendar, was based on a century-old palm-leaf manuscript from the Odisha State Museum. The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) attributed the error to the historical artwork, stating it was unintentional and reflected the painter’s style from that era.
was based on a century-old artwork from a palm-leaf manuscript preserved at the Odisha State Museum. The administration said the image was reproduced from historical material and the error was unintentional.
“This is the work of a painter of that time. It is hoped that Shree Jagannath lovers will not misunderstand it,” the SJTA said in a statement.
The mistake sparked widespread criticism, with devotees and political parties expressing concern over the deviation from temple tradition. The SJTA has assured that the sale of calendars has been suspended, and a public apology has been issued.
