In response to a proposed off-season celebration of two significant festivals, Snana Yatra and Ratha Yatra, in Houston, Texas, Puri King Gajapati Dibyasingha Deb has requested ISKCON to adhere to traditional Hindu calendar dates. As the primary custodian and “Adya Sevak” (first servitor) of Lord Jagannath, King Dibyasingha Deb expressed deep concerns in a letter to ISKCON, emphasizing the importance of following scriptural and historical conventions.
Objection to Non-Traditional Celebration Dates
According to the Puri King’s letter, the planned dates for the Houston Snana Yatra on November 3 and Ratha Yatra on November 9 contradict the traditional Hindu calendar. The festivals typically align with specific dates within the month of Ashadha, adhering to the cycle from the 2nd day (dwitiya) to the 12th or 13th day (dwadashi or trayodashi) of the bright fortnight (shukla-paksha). Deviating from these dates, he argued, disrupts the sacred traditions and scriptural mandates that have governed these ceremonies for centuries.
Highlighting the significance of scriptural consistency, Deb reminded ISKCON devotees worldwide that their commitment to the Vaishnava tradition involves strict adherence to established religious customs. He referred to authoritative texts such as the Skanda Purana, which dictate specific timings for the Ratha Yatra and Snana Yatra festivals, emphasizing that ISKCON centers should honor these longstanding practices.
Previous Resolutions and Long-standing Appeals
In his letter, Deb also referenced ongoing efforts by the Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee in Puri, which he chairs, to align ISKCON’s practices with traditional timings. He reminded the organization of his formal letter sent in 2008 and noted a 2021 resolution by ISKCON India’s Governing Council to hold the Ratha Yatra in accordance with scriptural dates within India. He expressed disappointment that international centers have not consistently followed this protocol.
Symbolism and Significance of Traditional Dates
The Snana Yatra, held on the full moon day (Jyestha Poornima), is celebrated as the Lord’s first manifestation or “birthday,” and, according to the king, holds profound symbolic meaning tied to specific dates. He compared this to the universal observance of Krishna Janmashtami, questioning the reasoning behind holding Lord Jagannath’s birth celebration outside the prescribed date range. Deviating from these dates, he argued, detracts from the festivals’ sanctity.
Support from Odisha Officials
The King’s concerns have also drawn support from Odisha’s Law Minister, who pledged to urge ISKCON to reconsider the dates for these festivals. This appeal aims to prevent any disruption to the spiritual integrity that the original festival timings signify.
King Dibyasingha Deb’s appeal to ISKCON reflects a deep commitment to preserving the sacred heritage of Lord Jagannath’s festivals. The response from ISKCON remains awaited, but the Puri King’s message underscores the importance of aligning modern observances with ancient traditions, respecting the divine significance carried by traditional dates for these holy events.
(With inputs from agencies)
