Tradition vs. Modern Practice: ISKCON and the Jagannath Ritual Debate

The Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee in Puri has formally urged ISKCON to adhere strictly to traditional dates for conducting Lord Jagannath's bathing rituals and Rath Yatra worldwide. The call aims to preserve the sanctity of practices observed in accordance with Hindu scriptures.

Expressing dissatisfaction, Committee Chairman Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb alleged that ISKCON temples in various global locations were performing these crucial religious events on dates that depart from those stipulated by the Hindu calendar. Such deviations, he insists, contravene established religious traditions.

In correspondence addressed to Shree Govardhan Das Prabhu of ISKCON's Governing Body Commission in Mayapur, Deb emphasized that adherence to sacred scriptures and traditions is non-negotiable. He highlighted instances of non-compliance by ISKCON temples in cities like New York, Calgary, and Leicester, urging rectification and underscoring the issue's importance.

(With inputs from agencies.)