70 Amuniya Modaks Go Missing from Puri Srimandir, Prompting Devotee Uproar

Puri Srimandir modak theft

Puri, (OT Webdesk) – June 24, : In a mystifying breach of temple protocol, 70 amuniya modaks—a sacred offering prepared for the Dasamula ritual at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri—reportedly vanished from the heavily guarded garada ghara prior to the June 21 ritual.

The incident was revealed by Haldhar Dasmahapatra, Badagrahi of Lord Balabhadra, who demanded an immediate investigation, calling it an “unforgivable breach of divine protocol.” The missing modaks were prepared by Rajvaidyas and are considered crucial to the sanctity of the ritual.

Despite the theft, temple officials proceeded with the ceremony using mara modaks, a move that has ignited a storm of discontent among devotees and ritual guardians.

Adding to the controversy is the silence from the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA). Critics argue that the lack of communication is intensifying public mistrust.

Former managing committee member Sudarsan Pattnaik called the incident “a disruption of trust,” urging officials to take action before the upcoming Rath Yatra.

The episode has cast a shadow over the temple’s internal security and ritual sanctity, prompting widespread calls for transparency and accountability.