ISKCON organized another untimely Ratha Yatra in Boston on Saturday, drawing sharp criticism from devotees and cultural observers for disregarding traditional Jagannath festival dates.
The Boston procession added to a growing list of untimely celebrations across the globe. Earlier, ISKCON held similar events in Chicago and Paraguay on June 21, followed by an untimely Snana Yatra in Zurich, Switzerland. Belgium’s Antwerp witnessed another untimely Ratha Yatra on June 19. On June 20, ISKCON organised four more untimely processions in Rome, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Calgary, Alberta, Ottawa, Ontario, and Barrie, Ontario.
Critics argue that ISKCON repeatedly undermines Jagannath culture and tradition by conducting Ratha Yatra on dates that do not align with the sacred calendar. Devotees expressed anger, stating that such practices distort the sanctity of rituals and hurt religious sentiments.
The controversy has intensified as ISKCON continues to expand its global footprint while ignoring traditional norms. Religious leaders and devotees have demanded accountability, urging ISKCON to respect the cultural authenticity of Jagannath festivals.
