There is no need for debate over the untimely Rath Yatra of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, organized internationally by ISKCON, stated the spiritual guru and Art of Living founder, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
During his Odisha visit on Tuesday, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar met with Editors from various newspapers and TV channels at Sri Sri University in Cuttack. Addressing the issue of ISKCON’s untimely Rath Yatra of Mahaprabhu Jagannath in Houston, US, he remarked that it’s a matter of sentiment.
“When the Jagannath Rath Yatra takes place in Puri, all of Odisha celebrates. However, at the international level, minorities select a suitable holiday to celebrate it, as there’s no official holiday for the event, leading to celebrations on a day before or after the designated date,” Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said.
He further explained, “Diwali in India isn’t celebrated on the same day in America; they observe it on a nearby holiday. Likewise, our Independence Day can’t always be celebrated on August 15th overseas; it’s marked on a different day. Thus, the Houston Rath Yatra controversy should be resolved amicably.”
When asked about the ‘Batenge To Katenge’ slogan from Maharashtra’s election campaign, Ravi Shankar opined, “Politicians make various statements during elections, some of which may hold truth and realism. Unity is essential.” He mentioned that if India’s Kings had been united, British rule would not have been possible.
On tackling the rise in mental stress and work pressure, particularly in journalism, he emphasized the critical need for peace of mind and happiness for everyone.
“Students are struggling to maintain mental equilibrium in all aspects, including their studies. In response, Sri Sri University has introduced a course named ‘Sudarshan Kriya’, which has already been adopted by 100 universities worldwide. Additionally, Sri Sri University is soon to establish a journalism college in Odisha,” as stated by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
