Puri: The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has once again triggered a controversy for organising Rath Yatra on May 18, deviating from the traditional norms for the sacred festival.
As per information, the organisation is set to conduct an ‘untimely’ Rath Yatra in Chelmsford, England on Sunday, drawing widespread criticism from religious leaders in Puri.
The move has sparked widespread outrage among devotees across Odisha and outside as well as servitors of Shree Jagannath Temple, Puri.
The Rath Yatra, a significant Hindu festival, traditionally celebrates the journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, on chariots.
The event in Chelmsford has come under criticism for two main reasons:
Untimely Celebration: The Rath Yatra is usually held in stipulated date as assigned by Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, Puri. Organising it in May is seen as untimely.
Deity Representation: Reports indicate that there are inaccuracies in the placement of the deities on the chariots. Sources claim that the images of the deities have been incorrectly positioned on the respective chariots.
The controversy erupted after ISKCON publicised the event online, inviting devotees of Lord Jagannath and followers of the Hare Krishna movement to participate in the event.
The programme details mention that the event will include cultural events, devotional kirtans, yoga sessions, and a special appearance by YouTuber Govind Krishna Das, who has been announced as an independent guest.
The move has annoyed servitors of the 12th century shrine in Puri. Senior servitor Hajuri Krushnachandra Khuntia strongly objected to the move of ISKCON, accusing the organisation of repeatedly flouting the spiritual norms of Jagannath worship.
“Rath Yatra is a sacred tradition deeply rooted in centuries of ritual and custom. The dates of the Rath Yatra, Snan Purnima, and other festivities are to be observed on a decided day. However, ISKCON has repeatedly violated these dates,” he said.
The servitors have urged both the state and central governments to immediately intervene and halt ISKCON’s unauthorised celebrations. According to them, such events not only misrepresent the sanctity of the Ratha Yatra but also mislead global devotees about the core traditions of Jagannath worship.
ISKCON has yet to issue any official response to the allegations made by devotees in Odisha.
