Discussions with ISKCON underway for Rath Yatra as per Puri Srimandir timelines: Gajapati Maharaja

Efforts are currently underway to conduct the world-famous Rath Yatra festival across the globe as per the date and tradition followed at the Lord Jagannath temple in Puri.

Puri Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb on Monday informed that discussion in this regard is currently underway with the highest authorities of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON).

According to the Gajapati Maharaja, ISKCON agreed to observe the Rath Yatra on a single date in India from 2021. However, ISKCON's international branches are yet to agree to this unified observance across the globe.

Ongoing Negotiations

Gajapati Maharaja further stated that efforts are on with ISKCON’s headquarters in Mayapur, West Bengal. The Governing Body Council Chairman of ISKCON has received traditional scriptures from Srimandir to get clarity on the desired practice.

Commitment to Tradition

Subsequently, there was a discussion about the matter between the scholars of ISKCON and Srimandir. ISKCON then responded with a written submission outlining their stance on the issue, which is currently being reviewed by the scholars of Srimandir. 

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Gajapati  Maharaja also indicated that Srimandir scholars are currently preparing a comprehensive response to ISKCON’s proposal. 

"The first discussion with ISKCON about the matter was held in 2021. Traditional scriptures in this regard have been provided to them by the Srimandir. They wanted a discussion about the matter from the scholars of both sides, and it was held in Bhubaneswar on March 20. They have submitted their written reply about the issue, and Srimandir scholars are currently preparing their answer. Efforts are underway to dismiss their opinions and fully prove the cultural significance of Srimandir," said Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb.