The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) in Puri, Odisha, has expressed strong objections to the upcoming Rath Yatra at Jagannath Mandir in Ferozepur Cantonment, Punjab, set for May 23. The SJTA argues that this event strays from the sacred traditional calendar and scriptural directives that govern the festivals of Lord Jagannath.
This incident follows a similar objection from the Puri administration regarding early Rath Yatra and Netrotsav events proposed in Hapur, Uttar Pradesh.
In a formal communication to Ferozepur District Magistrate Deepshikha Sharma, SJTA Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee called for the district administration to intervene and prevent the observance on the scheduled date. Padhee pointed out that, based on established ‘Tithi’ calculations and long-standing rituals at the Puri temple, the Rath Yatra for 2026 is set for July 16. “Any celebration of this sacred festival on a date other than the one prescribed by tradition and scriptures could deeply hurt the religious sentiments of millions of devotees of Lord Jagannath across India and abroad,” Padhee stated in the letter.
The SJTA became aware of the planned event through extensive promotional materials and social media posts advocating for the May 23 observance at the Ferozepur temple.
Padhee noted that the SJTA’s Managing Committee, led by Gajapati Maharaja of Puri, has consistently passed resolutions opposing deviations from the Puri temple’s traditions. The administration has urged the Ferozepur district authorities to ensure that any Rath Yatra adheres strictly to the rituals and timings observed at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. “Your timely intervention in this matter will help uphold the sanctity of this revered festival and preserve the religious sentiments of countless devotees,” it added.
The Rath Yatra includes the grand procession of deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra on large chariots, attracting millions of devotees each year in Puri. Temple officials assert that following the lunar calendar and scriptural customs is vital to maintaining the sanctity of the event.
Local organizers in Ferozepur have yet to respond publicly to the SJTA’s directive.
