Puri, Aug 30: A fake website named PujaPariseva.com has triggered massive outrage among devotees and servitors of Lord Jagannath after it was found promoting paid online puja services falsely linked to the revered Jagannath Temple in Puri.

The site advertised four types of rituals—Abhishek Puja, Tulsi Daan Puja, General Darshan Puja, and a combined puja for Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra—with prices ranging from Rs2,500 to Rs7,500, and even listed rates in US dollars.

The fraudulent platform claimed that after payment, pujas would be performed in the temple by designated priests on behalf of the devotee. It also offered items like sukhila bhog, tulsi leaves, and nirmalya for sale, further misleading worshippers. A dedicated phone number was provided for booking, through which thousands of rupees were reportedly collected.

Senior servitors such as Somnath Khuntia and Binayak Das Mahapatra condemned the act, calling it a direct assault on the sanctity of the temple and the emotional devotion of millions of Jagannath followers. “This is not just fraud—it’s spiritual exploitation,” said Khuntia.

Puri SP Prateek Singh confirmed that a cyber investigation is underway and assured strict legal action against the perpetrators. Meanwhile, Shrre Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA ) chief Aravind Padhi announced plans to patent temple-related terminology to prevent future misuse.

The temple administration clarified that it has not authorized any online puja services and urged devotees to verify sources before making any payments. The incident has reignited concerns over the lack of stringent laws to curb religious fraud in digital spaces.

As the investigation unfolds, the state watches closely, hoping for swift justice and stronger safeguards to protect sacred traditions from commercial exploitation.

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