Odisha Moves to Copyright Jagannath Temple Rituals to Protect Tradition

The rituals of the Puri Jagannath temple are unique due to their ancient origins, elaborate ceremonies, and inclusivity. Iconic events like the Rath Yatra and traditions such as Nabakalebara (renewal of deities) have been practiced for centuries, making the temple a living embodiment of faith and continuity. These rituals reflect the temple’s rich cultural and religious heritage and attract millions of devotees worldwide.

The Odisha government seeks copyright protection to prevent unauthorized organizations from misusing the temple's identity or conducting key rituals and festivals like the Rath Yatra on incorrect dates. This legal step aims to safeguard the temple’s intangible religious and cultural heritage from misrepresentation and commercial exploitation, ensuring authenticity and respect for these traditions.

Applying copyright laws to religious rituals is complex, as they are typically communal and ancient. However, copyright protection can cover unique expressions, choreography, documentation, or specific presentations of rituals. This prevents misappropriation, protects the community’s rights, and ensures rituals are represented authentically, but enforcement may face legal and ethical challenges due to the public and spiritual nature of these traditions.

Efforts to legally protect religious rituals and cultural heritage are rare but increasing in India. Some temples and communities have sought geographical indication (GI) tags for unique practices or products, like Tirupati laddu. However, copyrighting entire ritual sequences is innovative; Puri’s move may set a precedent for other heritage sites seeking to safeguard their traditions through intellectual property law.