Puri: Gajapati Dibyasingh Deb of Puri today expressed strong disapproval of ISKCON’s continued practice of organizing non-timely Rath Jatra celebrations for Lord Jagannath abroad, hinting at potential legal action.
Speaking to the media after chairing a meeting of the Shree Jagannath Temple Management Committee, the Gajapati Maharaj criticized ISKCON for holding Rath Jatra festivals on dates that deviate from those observed by the Puri Srimandir.
He recalled that ISKCON had committed in 2021 to aligning their Rath Jatra dates with the auspicious timings prescribed by the Puri temple. However, this agreement has not been uniformly implemented, especially in ISKCON-run Jagannath temples outside India.
ISKCON has reportedly stated that it requires directives from its Governing Body Commission (GBC) in Mayapur, India, to standardize these observances.
“We are pleased to see hundreds of new Jagannath temples established in foreign countries, and more are on the way,” the Gajapati told reporters. “However, these temples must follow the prescribed rituals and traditions as practiced in the Puri Srimandir.”
A meeting between ISKCON representatives and Puri temple scholars took place in Bhubaneswar in March to address the issue. ISKCON provided a written explanation justifying their current practices, presenting various supporting facts. In response, Srimandir scholars have prepared a counterstatement, which will be sent to ISKCON shortly.
“If ISKCON refuses to adhere to the traditions of the Puri temple, we will continue to seek an amicable resolution, or the government can consider legal action,” the Puri King stated. “However, the legal way is a delayed process, so we want to address the issue soon through mutual discussion.” He added, “It is expected that they will follow our tradition after all the information is given to ISKCON. If the ISKCON chief does not refrain from this, the next course of action will be taken.” The Gajapati emphasized that since ISKCON is a religious organization, priority would be given to resolving the matter amicably rather than through court.
Regarding the ongoing controversy surrounding the Jagannath temple at Digha, the Gajapati stated that naming the Digha temple as ‘Jagannath Dham’ is incorrect. He noted that despite raising the issue, the temple authority has not taken any corrective action. “Many Jagannath temples have been built around the world. But no one has done such naming. Jagatguru and I have previously expressed the opinion that only Srikshetra Puri is Jagannath Dham,” he reiterated.
The Gajapati urged the State government to engage with the West Bengal government on this matter, stressing that sacred terms and names associated with the Srimandir should not be misused. He concluded, “We should engage in dialogue with the promoters of the Digha temple and resolve the issue amicably, rather than pursuing prolonged legal proceedings.”