Puri, June 16, (OT Webdesk)— Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb has penned a letter to Govardhan Das Prabhu, Chairman of ISKCON’s Governing Body Commission, calling for strict adherence to scripturally sanctioned dates for Snana Yatra and Rath Yatra celebrations across the globe.
The Gajapati expressed concern over several international ISKCON centres deviating from the traditional calendar, observing Lord Jagannath’s rituals on arbitrary dates—an act he emphasised as inconsistent with both shastric guidelines and the sanctity of Jagannath culture.
According to the Maharaja, such deviations compromise the spiritual gravitas of these revered festivals.
He reinforced that Snana Yatra must be celebrated on Jyestha Purnima (June 11, 2025), and Rath Yatra on Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya (June 27, 2025), culminating with Bahuda Yatra on Ashadha Shukla Dashami (July 5, 2025) as per Odia tradition.
To support his assertion, the letter includes statements from Jagannath culture scholars and links to online announcements by ISKCON temples abroad.
The Maharaja further stated that a detailed scriptural analysis would soon be shared with ISKCON to prevent future misalignments.
This intervention is seen as a vital step in safeguarding Lord Jagannath’s ancient rituals and religious integrity as they gain growing international prominence.
