Lord Jagannath Tattoo on Foreigner’s Thigh Sparks Row in Odisha; Artist, Shop Owner Arrested | India News
Introduction
Tattoos are a significant form of self-expression, allowing individuals to showcase their unique style and personalities. However, when it comes to religious symbols, such as the Lord Jagannath tattoo, it is crucial to respect the sentiments of the community. Recently, a controversy has emerged in Odisha after a foreigner got a Lord Jagannath tattoo on her thigh, sparking outrage among devotees. In this article, we will explore the issue and its implications.
The Controversy Unfolds
The controversy began with a viral photo of a foreign woman, who works for a non-governmental organization, with a Lord Jagannath tattoo on her thigh. The tattoo was allegedly inked at a parlour in Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha. The photo quickly went viral on social media, triggering outrage among workers of Hindu outfits and Jagannath devotees.
Arrests and Investigations
Based on the complaint of Jagannath devotees, a complaint was registered under Section 299 (deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings if any class by insulting its religion) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The accused, Rockey Ranjan Bisoi and Aswini Kumar Pradhan, tattoo artist and shop owner, respectively, were arrested by the Sahid Nagar police station.
Investigations Reveal
During the course of investigation, Rocky confessed that one of his artists, Aswini Kumar Pradhan, inked the tattoo on the thigh of the woman at her request, said a police officer. The police are verifying the details of the woman, who is an Italy national working for a non-governmental organization.
Reaction of the Accused
In a video message, the foreign woman apologized for her mistake, saying, "I didn’t want to be disrespectful. I’m a true devotee of Lord Jagannath. I go to the temple every day. I made a mistake and for this, I’m very sorry. I just asked the artist to ink the tattoo in a hidden place. I didn’t want to create any situation. I’m very sorry for my mistake. As soon as the tattoo area heals, I will have it removed. Forgive me for my mistake."
Ripple Effects
The controversy has sparked a wider debate on the sensitive topic of religious symbols in tattoos. Many have expressed outrage and shock, while others have defended the individual’s right to self-expression. The incident has also raised questions about the regulation of tattoo parlours and the responsibility of artists to respect religious sentiments.
Conclusion
The Lord Jagannath tattoo on a foreigner’s thigh has sparked a row in Odisha, highlighting the delicate balance between individual freedom and communal harmony. As the case unfolds, it is essential to consider the implications of such incidents on our society and the need for greater understanding and respect for religious sentiments. As we navigate this complex issue, one thing is clear: the true nature of devotion and the power of tattoos lie in their ability to inspire and unite, rather than divide.
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