Overview
- The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration halted distribution of 2026 wall and table calendars as well as diaries after backlash over the Ratna Singhasan depiction.
- Officials said the image was reproduced from a palm-leaf manuscript preserved at the Odisha State Museum and reflected a historical painter’s style.
- BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty said Balabhadra and Jagannath were shown in each other’s positions, placing Subhadra on the wrong side of Jagannath.
- Leaders from the BJD and the Congress criticized the SJTA and the state government, alleging a lack of scholarly consultation and insensitivity to Odia cultural identity.
- Opposition figures also claimed the calendar displayed the Rath Yatra chariots in the incorrect procession order, contrary to established practice.