Bhubaneswar: A foreign woman had to see the wrath of devotees after a photo of her tattoo portraying Lord Jagannath on her thigh emerged on social media.
On March 2, Subrat Mohani had filed a complaint with Sahid Nagar police station in Bhubaneswar alleging that the placement of the tattoo hurt religious sentiments. After the complaint, an FIR was lodged under Section 299 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage the religious feelings of any class.
The woman and the tattoo artist later posted a video apologising for any offences, as the controversy heightened. I never intended any disrespect to Lord Jagannath. I am a real devotee and go to the temple regularly. That tattoo was in pure devotion—fans have been emotional about this, and I apologise. I repent deeply on this mark and will remove it as soon as the wound disappears.
The tattoo artist introduced herself as someone who “insisted to have that tattoo on her thigh.” We bear full responsibility for the tattoo and will assist in its removal. She has promised to cover or remove it in 20-25 days, but tattoos can become infected if removed immediately after skin damage.