ISKCON Says ‘No’ to Same-Date Global Rath Yatra, Citing Weather and Logistical Hurdles

The letter also stated that most volunteers and devotees are unable to participate on weekdays due to their professional responsibilities. Many temples do not have their own chariots, and the same chariot is transported to multiple cities for the event. Furthermore, some countries experience harsh winter weather during the Rath Yatra dates, making the event impossible.

Meanwhile, Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb on Tuesday expressed concern over ISKCON's stance and urged the organization to reconsider its decision. He stated that the Jagannath Rath Yatra should be celebrated worldwide during the same nine-day auspicious period, beginning on the second day of the bright fortnight of Ashadha month. In his letter, Gajapati Maharaja questioned why the Rath Yatra should be an exception when festivals like Mahashivratri, Janmashtami, Ramnavami, Ganesh Chaturthi, Holi, Diwali, Durga Puja, Vasant Panchami, and Makar Sankranti are celebrated on fixed dates worldwide.

Gajpati Deb further stated that it is unfair to argue that dates should be changed due to local weather, administrative permission, or publicity convenience. Citing examples, he said that festivals like Christmas, Eid al-Fitr, Buddha Purnima, Paryushan Parva, Yom Kippur, and Baisakhi are also celebrated according to their respective religious calendars, regardless of the country. He wrote that changing the date of the Rath Yatra would be contrary to the original tradition and would affect the unity of the worship of Lord Jagannath.