Chinese e-commerce site angers millions by selling doormat with Lord Jagannath’s image; Company responds

A major controversy broke out in Odisha after people found out that Chinese e-commerce platform AliExpress was selling doormats with the image of Lord Jagannath, a deeply respected deity in the state.

The matter came to light when users noticed the offensive item listed on AliExpress. The image of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, who holds great spiritual value for Odias, was printed on doormats, a move that many called hurtful and insulting.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida slammed the platform. Sharing her views on X, she wrote, "Mahaprabhu Jagannath is deeply connected to the soul and emotions of every Odia. I strongly condemn Chinese e-commerce platform @AliExpress_EN for selling doormats featuring Mahaprabhu Jagannath's image. @AliExpress_EN must remove the listing immediately and apologise to devotees for this offensive act."


After the backlash, AliExpress replied to a post by Congress MLA Sofia Firdous, saying the item had been taken down.

The platform stated, “We appreciate your report. The item has been reviewed and removed. Community input helps us improve our platform and strengthen our content checks. Thank you for helping us create a safe and friendly online shopping experience.”

Firdous had earlier written, "Strongly condemn the blasphemous act of selling doormats with the sacred image of Lord Jagannath on @AliExpress_EN. This is a grave insult to millions of devotees and a serious attack on cultural and religious sentiments. Immediate action must be taken to remove the listing and issue a public apology."

Renowned sand artist and Padma Shri awardee Sudarshan Pattnaik also voiced his anger.

He wrote, "Jai Jagannath. We appeal to all devotees worldwide to raise their voice against this unacceptable act. The sacred image of Mahaprabhu Jagannath on a doormat sold by @AliExpress_EN is deeply offensive. Remove it, apologise, and ensure this never happens again."

Former MP and BJD leader Amar Patnaik called the act a disgrace.

He said, "I strongly condemn the act of selling doormats with the sacred image of Lord Jagannath on AliExpress. This is a big insult to millions of devotees. It shows complete disrespect for Hindu beliefs. Immediate action must be taken to fix this and protect the dignity of our faith."

Inputs from PTI