Bhubaneswar: Social media influencer Shubhankar Mishra has apologised for his controversial remarks about the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. Mishra, in a video post, had claimed that unmarried couples visiting the temple would face relationship troubles or even breakups, citing a supposed “curse” from Goddess Radha Rani.
The backlash was immediate, with devotees, temple servitors, and the public criticising Mishra’s statements as baseless and disrespectful to the temple’s traditions. The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration condemned the remarks, and a police complaint was filed against Mishra.
In an apology video on his YouTube channel, Mishra stated, “I had no evil intentions. The hearts of Odia devotees were hurt, and I apologise. Prabhu Jagannath is my God, and I consider Puri Dham my home. I have removed the old video and apologise from the bottom of my heart.”
He said, “What I said was not imaginary or from my own words. The same was also mentioned long ago on various websites. After the complaint was received, I had removed the video from my social media site”.
Mishra claimed his statements were made long ago and were taken out of context. He emphasised that he didn’t spread rumours and respects the temple and its devotees. The controversy sparked a heated debate on social media, with many calling for accountability from influencers.
