Puri, July 7 (UDN): Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb has written to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking their intervention over the observance of Snana Yatra and Ratha Yatra festivals by ISKCON centres abroad on dates that he claims are not in accordance with traditional scriptures and customs associated with Lord Jagannath.
In separate letters dated July 4, 2026, the Gajapati Maharaja expressed concern that the festivals were being organised outside India on dates he described as “untimely”, which he said had caused distress among devotees, particularly members of the Odia community living in India and abroad.
The Maharaja recalled that he had previously raised the matter through representations submitted to the Prime Minister on October 24, 2025, and to the President on April 20, 2026. Copies of the earlier communications, along with details of upcoming events, were attached with the latest letters.
He stated that traditional authorities, including Shankaracharyas and Vaishnavacharyas, have emphasised that Lord Jagannath’s sacred festivals should be conducted according to established religious practices and prescribed timings.
The appeal highlights the ongoing concerns over maintaining the traditional sanctity and customs associated with Lord Jagannath’s major festivals. The Gajapati Maharaja has urged the authorities to consider the sentiments of devotees and take appropriate steps to address the issue.
Leave a Reply