SJTA Urges ISKCON to Adhere to Traditional Rath Yatra Schedule

Bhubaneswar: A crucial meeting between the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) and representatives of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Mayapuri was held at the State Guest House in Bhubaneswar. Presided over by Gajapati Maharaj Dibya Singh Dev, the meeting aimed to address concerns over ISKCON’s untimely Rath Yatra celebrations in India and abroad.

SJTA chief administrator Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee emphasized the importance of following the traditional ‘tithis’ prescribed by scriptures and requested ISKCON to respect the religious sentiments of Jagannath devotees worldwide. He pointed out that while ISKCON’s Mayapuri office has the authority to decide on festival dates within India, international celebrations are determined by their US-based governing commission.

“We have requested them to take the matter to their appropriate forum. The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has asked ISKCON to observe Rath Yatra this year on the second day of the bright fortnight of the ‘Ashadha’ month, which falls on June 27, and the Snan Yatra on Jyestha Purnima, as per the traditional schedule,” Dr. Padhee stated.

Religious and cultural experts present at the meeting advised ISKCON to refrain from removing the idols of the holy trinity—Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra—from the sanctum sanctorum except during Snan Yatra and Rath Yatra. They stressed the need for uniformity in ritual observances to maintain the sanctity of these revered traditions.

The SJTA reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the spiritual and cultural heritage associated with Lord Jagannath and urged ISKCON to align its celebrations with the established norms. The discussion concluded with a mutual understanding that ISKCON would take the matter up with its governing bodies for further deliberation.