Puri Hotel Owner Detained Over Alleged Serving of Mahaprasad with Non-Vegetarian Food
Puri: A major controversy has erupted in Odisha’s pilgrim town of Puri after allegations surfaced that a hotel owner was serving sacred Jagannath Mahaprasad alongside non-vegetarian food.
The incident has triggered outrage among devotees and prompted a police investigation.
According to reports, the matter came to light when a customer reportedly noticed that Mahaprasad, considered sacred by devotees of Lord Jagannath, was being served at a roadside hotel near the Railway Station and Police Line area in Puri.
The allegations further suggest that stale Abadha, sourced from the Jagannath Temple, was reheated and served along with non-vegetarian dishes at the establishment.
The claims sparked immediate resentment among locals and devotees, many of whom viewed the act as a serious insult to religious sentiments.
Following the allegations, residents gathered near the hotel and raised objections.
Reports indicate that earthen pots containing Mahaprasad were recovered from the premises, intensifying public anger and demands for strict action.
Police personnel from Kumbharapada Police Station rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control.
The hotel owner was subsequently detained for questioning as authorities began an investigation into the matter.
Officials are now probing how the Mahaprasad reached the hotel and whether others may be involved in the alleged activity.
The incident has reignited discussions on the sanctity of Jagannath Mahaprasad and the need for stricter monitoring to prevent its misuse.
The investigation is currently underway, and further action will depend on the outcome of the police inquiry.
