ISKCON under fire for 'misinformation' about Jagannath culture
Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, the titular king of Puri and chairman of the Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee, has called out ISKCON for spreading "serious misinformation" by holding Rath Yatra festivals on unsanctioned dates.
He warned that these off-calendar celebrations are a big deviation from tradition and could harm the sanctity of Jagannath worship.
What happened next?
In October, Deb addressed concerns about ISKCON's practices and referenced correspondence regarding scriptural violations.
Still, ISKCON went ahead with untimely Rath Yatras in places like Rishikesh, Taipei, and Sandton.
While ISKCON said organizing events abroad is tough, they only agreed to hold Snana Yatra on the proper date, but refused to unify Rath Yatra dates worldwide.
Why does this matter?
The controversy has sparked public backlash—artists and devotees are urging authorities to step in.
Experts say sticking to traditional dates isn't just ritual; it's spiritually important for millions who follow Jagannath culture worldwide.