Kamiya Jani Beef Eating Controversy: BJD and BJP in Odisha after Curly Tales Star’s Jagannath Temple Video Goes Viral

Being a social media influencer is an accomplishment, no doubt about that. But there is a flip side too.

They can land in troubled waters in no time. Take a look. A new controversy is brewing around social media influencer Kamiya Jani and VK Pandyaan, a bureaucrat turned BJD leader at the Jagannath temple premises in Puri.  The Odisha unit of the BJP has raised objections claiming that Jani, known for allegedly promoting beef consumption, was granted access to the revered temple. The video in question reportedly shows Kamiya Jani promoting the Puri-Srimandir Heritage Corridor project and Mahaprasad alongside BJD leader VK Pandyaan. The BJP in Odisha reacted strongly expressing offence on behalf of millions of Hindus and  deeming the broadcast of the video from the temple premises as unacceptable.

Kamiya Jani responded to the controversy by issuing a clarification on her Instagram story stating that she has never eaten beef. She emphasized her mission to promote Indian culture and heritage globally, mentioning her visit to various Jyotirlingas and Chardhams in India.  Jani expressed her surprise at the article questioning her visit to the Jagannath temple and clarified her stance, ending with the phrase, Jai Jagannath.

The controversy highlights the intersection of religious sentiments, cultural sensitivity and social media influence, with both sides presenting contrasting views on the matter.