Amid the ongoing debate over the timing of ISKCON’s Rath Yatra celebrations, the Bhubaneswar chapter of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has appealed to the organisation’s Governing Body Commission (GBC) to reconsider holding the festival on dates different from the traditional Puri Rath Yatra.
Bhubaneswar ISKCON President Shashwata Das said the organisation should align its Rath Yatra celebrations with the centuries-old tradition associated with Lord Jagannath, stressing the need to respect the religious sentiments of millions of devotees.
Appeal for a Single-Day Rath Yatra
Speaking on the issue, Das said Rath Yatra should be observed on a single day in accordance with the traditional calendar followed in Puri.
He also emphasised the revered status of the Gajapati Maharaja of Puri, describing him as the “living representative” of Lord Jagannath. Das said the views expressed by the Gajapati Maharaja and Jagannath devotees deserve serious consideration.
According to him, aligning Rath Yatra celebrations with the traditional schedule would strengthen ISKCON’s goodwill among devotees across the world.
Request to ISKCON Governing Body Commission
Das urged the ISKCON Governing Body Commission to review its decision and remain sensitive to the religious sentiments associated with the annual chariot festival.
He said an ISKCON committee has been formed in Odisha to communicate the concerns of devotees and persuade the GBC to reconsider the existing practice.
“We also want Rath Yatra to be observed on a single day, as per tradition,” Das reiterated.
Limited Role of ISKCON India
The Bhubaneswar ISKCON President also pointed out that ISKCON India has limited authority over Rath Yatra celebrations organised by ISKCON centres abroad.
According to him, implementing a uniform global observance would require intervention at a higher level, including support from the Central Government and coordination with the organisation’s international leadership.
Controversy Continues
The issue has sparked widespread debate among Jagannath devotees and religious organisations, with many urging ISKCON to follow the traditional Puri calendar for Rath Yatra celebrations worldwide.
The controversy gained further attention after reports that ISKCON declined an invitation from the Gajapati Maharaja of Puri for discussions on the matter. Several religious leaders have also voiced concern, saying a common observance would help preserve the sanctity and tradition of Lord Jagannath’s annual chariot festival.
