AI-generated visuals of Lord Jagannath go viral, temple authorities file police complaint

Puri: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) on Monday lodged a police complaint after artificial intelligence-generated photos and videos of Lord Jagannath began circulating widely on social media, drawing strong reactions from devotees.

The complaint was filed at the Singhadwar Police Station against a social media account operating under the name “vishvrajcreation” for allegedly sharing fabricated and objectionable visuals of the deity. Temple officials said the content had no basis in religious tradition and had caused deep hurt to the sentiments of devotees.

In a statement, the SJTA said it had come across several AI-generated images and videos portraying Lord Jagannath in ways that are not in keeping with temple customs. “These unacceptable visuals are being circulated on social media and have hurt the religious feelings of devotees,” the administration said.

According to the complaint submitted by the temple’s Special Security Officer, one of the videos shows milk being poured over Lord Jagannath using a crane in front of the Puri temple-an entirely fictitious scene. Jagannath culture researcher Bhaskar Mishra said such depictions are misleading and disrespectful, as they have no connection with established rituals or traditions of the shrine.

“The fake visuals have deeply hurt the sentiments of devotees of Lord Jagannath,” Mishra said, adding that the use of artificial intelligence to create such content was a serious concern.

Temple officials noted that while there have been instances in the past of unauthorised photography and circulation of visuals from within the temple premises, this was the first time AI technology had been used to generate content that dishonours the deity.

In response to the growing challenge, the Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee (SJTMC), the highest decision-making body of the 12th-century shrine, has recently decided to amend existing legal provisions to make such acts illegal and punishable.

(with inputs from agencies)