The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) and representatives of ISKCON (The International Society for Krishna Consciousness) Mayapuri convened a meeting today at the State Guest House in Bhubaneswar.
The discussion, led by Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, addressed concerns over ISKCON’s scheduling of untimely Rath Yatra celebrations.
The SJTA Chief Administrator, Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, emphasized the importance of adhering to scriptural dates fixed for festivals, and respecting the sentiments of Jagannath devotees worldwide. He urged ISKCON to align their Rath Yatra festivities with the prescribed “Tithis,” particularly the second day of the bright fortnight in the Ashadha month, which this year falls on June 27. Additionally, the Snan Yatra should be held on Jyestha Purnima as per the schedule.
While ISKCON Mayapuri decides on festivals within India, the governing commission based in the United States oversees international events. The SJTA has appealed to ISKCON to take these recommendations to their respective authorities for consideration.
Cultural experts advised ISKCON against removing the sacred idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra from the sanctum sanctorum, except during the Snan Yatra and Rath Yatra.
This meeting underscores the spiritual importance of adhering to tradition and fostering harmony among devotees worldwide.
