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3d ago

AliExpress Removes Lord Jagannath Doormat After Religious Outrage

AliExpress’s removal of the doormat listing has not quelled demands for a formal apology or new safeguards to prevent future misuse of sacred imagery.

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Jay Panda | Image: ANI
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Overview

  • The doormat, priced at ₹787.65 and marketed as moisture-absorbent and anti-slip, featured Lord Jagannath’s face with promotional images showing a foot stepping on the deity’s eyes.
  • Local group Badadanda Seba filed a police complaint on July 15 and social media campaigns with hashtags like #RespectJagannath and #BoycottAliExpress went viral across India.
  • Political figures including BJD’s Amar Patnaik, BJP’s Baijayant Jay Panda and Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida condemned the sale as desecration and demanded accountability from AliExpress.
  • On July 31, AliExpress announced it had reviewed and removed the listing in response to community feedback.
  • Devotees and former temple committee member Madhab Pujapanda have urged formal apologies and faster legal protection of religious symbols to deter future misuse.