​On March 23, 2025, representatives from the ISKCON India Scholars Board (IISB) met with His Majesty Gajapati Maharaja Dibya Singh Dev, the revered King of Puri, and Shri Jagannath Temple’s Chief Administrator, Shri Arvind Padee, IAS, in Bhubaneshwar to discuss the synchronization of ISKCON’s observance of the Sri Jagannath Rathayatra and Snaan Yatra festivals with the dates followed at Puri, as prescribed in the Skanda Mahapurana.

ISKCON’s scholars presented well-reasoned arguments, raising several critical questions that remained unanswered by the scholars on the Gajapati Maharaja’s side on this issue. Despite this, the temple authorities humbly requested that ISKCON conduct the Jagannath Ratha Yatra as per the Tithi (dates as per the lunar calendar) mentioned in the Skanda Purana, in alignment with the traditions followed at Sri Jagannath Mandir in Puri.

Recognizing the depth of the discussion, His Majesty affirmed that this dialogue will continue. Tukaram Das, Vice President, ISKCON Bhubaneshwar, noted, “His Majesty and the temple authorities deeply appreciated ISKCON’s unwavering efforts in spreading Sanatana Dharma and Lord Jagannath’s message and worship worldwide.” For the full article, click here. 

Photo credit: Tukaram Das.