Bhubaneswar: The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has decided to cancel its planned Rath Yatra in Houston, USA, following significant backlash from devotees, servitors, and Puri Gajapati Dibyasingh Deb. In a statement, ISKCON expressed its respect for the sentiments of Lord Jagannath’s devotees and announced that it would instead hold a Gour Nitai Sankirtan Yatra.
Earlier today, Gajapati Maharaja urged ISKCON to refrain from organizing the Rath Yatra or any other festivals related to Lord Jagannath that violate Shastric injunctions. Despite ISKCON’s previous cancellation of the Snana Yatra in Houston on November 3, concerns persisted over their intention to proceed with the Rath Yatra scheduled for November 9.
According to tradition, the idol of Lord Jagannath and his holy siblings should only be taken out of the temple during specific occasions: the annual Snana Yatra, which marks the birth anniversary of Lord Jagannath, and the Rath Yatra itself. These guidelines are rooted in the Skanda Purana, which emphasizes the importance of adhering to such rituals as directed by Lord Jagannath.
The decision to cancel the Rath Yatra has been met with relief by many devotees who prioritize adherence to these sacred traditions. ISKCON’s commitment to honoring the customs associated with Lord Jagannath reflects its ongoing dedication to preserving the integrity of the faith and its rituals.