A social media storm erupted after artist Sohini Ganguly shared an image of Lord Jagannath painted on her baby bump, describing it as “artistic expression.” While some saw it as spiritual, many called it insensitive, especially during the sacred Rath Yatra.
Critics say painting a revered deity on a bare stomach crosses the line between art and offense. Many believe the human body, though natural and beautiful, is not the place for divine imagery. For them, depicting Bhagwan Jagannath in this way feels deeply disrespectful. They view such acts as diminishing the sanctity of the deity by placing them in a context that feels casual, irreverent, or inappropriate.
The timing of the image’s release—during Rath Yatra, one of the most sacred festivals dedicated to Lord Jagannath—has only intensified the backlash. Many believe it wasn’t accidental, but a calculated move to gain attention by courting controversy during a spiritually significant moment. To them, what could have been a personal or devotional act instead comes off as a deliberate provocation, disguised under the label of “art.”
This incident, they argue, is less about creativity and more about testing the limits of tolerance, once again using Hindu faith as the battleground. Artists and brands have repeatedly used Hindu symbols in controversial ways across fashion, media, and art, triggering accusations of double standards and selective outrage. Many wonder why the Hindu faith is so often singled out for such experiments.
For millions, deities like Jagannath are not just symbols—they are living divinities. The Jagannath baby bump portrayal may claim to be bold art, but without reverence, it comes across as nothing more than disrespect.
Art has its place. But so does faith. And faith is not your canvas.
