Fresh controversy erupted over ISKCON’s conduct of Rath Yatra celebrations abroad. Criticisms are now extending beyond disputes over traditional observance dates to the manner in which a recent procession was organised in the United States.

According to reports, during a Rath Yatra organised by ISKCON in Houston, Lord Jagannath’s idol was placed on the open rear platform of a vehicle and taken out in procession. The development sparked concern among sections of devotees and reignited the debate over the organisation’s conduct of Jagannath-related festivals outside India.

Questions Raised Over Houston Procession

The visuals from the Houston event drew criticism from devotees, many of whom questioned how the procession was organised with Lord Jagannath’s idol placed on an open vehicle platform.

Millions of Odias and Jagannath devotees across the world hold Lord Jagannath in deep reverence, and the reported arrangement prompted fresh concerns over adherence to established traditions and practices associated with the deity.

The visuals also reportedly caused anguish among devotees, while questions were raised regarding the circumstances under which such a procession was permitted.

Continuing Debate Over Festival Dates

The latest controversy comes amid continuing criticism of ISKCON’s organisation of Rath Yatra and Snana Yatra celebrations outside the traditional schedule.

Over the past week, and on several occasions earlier, the organisation reportedly conducted Rath Yatra and Snana Yatra events on dates that do not coincide with the traditional observance of the festivals.

The issue repeatedly drew objections from sections of Jagannath devotees, who expressed concern over celebrations being held outside the prescribed tithi.

Similar Events Held Elsewhere

Meanwhile, Bhagwan Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra Seva Samiti in Hapur, Uttar Pradesh, had also organised an untimely Rath Yatra reportedly inspired by similar events conducted by ISKCON.

Also Read: ISKCON’s untimely Rath Yatra events abroad trigger fresh concern among Jagannath devotees

The organisers reportedly justified the decision by stating that the festival was organised according to their convenience and school holidays.

They further said that they conducted Rath Yatra celebrations for the past 26 years.