Majhi Slams ISKCON Over Untimely Rath Yatra
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi strongly criticised ISKCON for organising Rath Yatra celebrations on an untimely date, calling it a violation of Lord Jagannath’s sacred traditions.
He assured that the state government will take appropriate action to safeguard the sentiments of Odisha’s 4.5 crore devotees.
Majhi emphasised that Lord Jagannath’s rituals are deeply rooted in tradition, with 13 major festivals observed annually according to the temple calendar.
He noted that ISKCON’s deviation undermines the sanctity of these practices.
The Chief Minister’s remarks were echoed by Gajapati Maharaja, Shankaracharya of Govardhan Peeth, and the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, all of whom expressed concern over the breach of tradition.
Majhi further cautioned that arrogance and disregard for Lord Jagannath’s rituals have historically failed to replicate Puri’s sanctity elsewhere.
He warned that those who disrespect traditions with negative intent will face consequences.
