Concerns Raised Over Non-Traditional Rath Yatra Dates in Puri

The Puri Rath Yatra is under scrutiny as Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingh Deb raises concerns over ISKCON's plans to hold the festival on non-traditional dates. He emphasizes the importance of adhering to centuries-old customs and warns that deviations could undermine the sanctity of Jagannath culture. The debate highlights the clash between traditional practices and modern logistical challenges faced by ISKCON in organizing the event globally. As discussions continue, the need for a firm stance against deviations from established rituals becomes increasingly urgent.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 23, 2025, 09:20 IST

Key Highlights of the News

The temple administration has expressed concerns that Rath Yatra celebrations in some parts of the world are being held on dates that deviate from traditional and scriptural guidelines.

Preserving Tradition

In a message sent to the Prime Minister's Office, it was emphasized that age-old religious beliefs and customs must be preserved.

Accusations Against ISKCON

The nominal king of Puri, Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingh Deb, accused the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) of spreading 'misinformation' against the Jagannath culture and urged religious scholars and devotees to oppose the 'untimely' Rath Yatra celebrations.

Attention Drawn to Non-Traditional Dates

Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingh Deb brought to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's attention that ISKCON is planning to hold the Rath Yatra on 'non-traditional dates.' An official reported this on Monday, noting that ISKCON informed the Maharaja that logistical issues prevent simultaneous celebrations in various countries.

Violation of Scriptural Guidelines

Arbind Padhi, the chief administrator of the Sri Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), stated that the Maharaja has informed the Prime Minister's Office about ISKCON's plans to conduct the Rath Yatra outside the prescribed times. He emphasized that they are not adhering to the scriptural rules for the annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath.

Threat to Jagannath Culture

Maharaja Dibyasingh Deb reiterated that holding the Rath Yatra at non-traditional times is a serious deviation. He accused ISKCON of violating the scriptures and the Jagannath tradition, warning that this could lead to a dangerous trend followed by others, thereby undermining the sanctity of Jagannath culture.

Call for Strong Opposition

While addressing a gathering at the Jagannath Chetana Research Institute, the Maharaja urged the people of Odisha and the nation to be wary of actions that deviate from scriptural directives under the guise of promoting Jagannath culture. According to scriptures, the Rath Yatra is traditionally held on the second day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha (June-July). However, ISKCON has stated that it is not feasible to hold the Rath Yatra on a specific date globally due to logistical challenges.

Adherence to Original Traditions

Despite this, ISKCON has agreed to celebrate Snana Purnima on the same day worldwide, in line with the original traditions of Puri. The Maharaja pointed out that organizing the Rath Yatra on dates not sanctioned by scriptures represents one of the most serious misinformation campaigns against Jagannath culture.

Need for Firm Expression

Recognizing the peaceful and tolerant nature of the Odia people, the symbolic king stated that it is time for religious scholars and devotees to express their views firmly. He warned that remaining silent could further promote deviations, and without strong opposition, irregular practices may gradually become normalized.

Unresolved Discussions with ISKCON

He noted that multiple rounds of discussions with ISKCON have yielded no results. He stressed that the Rath Yatra should be conducted according to the guidelines set forth in the scriptures and the centuries-old traditions of the Sri Jagannath Temple in Puri.

Agreement on Snana Yatra Date

In a letter dated October 19, the president of the ISKCON Governing Body Commission, Govardhan Das, mentioned that the organization has agreed to celebrate the Snana Yatra on the prescribed date in all its temples in India and abroad. However, he noted that ISKCON could not agree with the SJTA's decision to hold the Rath Yatra outside India on the date specified by scriptures and tradition.