TNI Bureau: The Shree Jagannatha Temple Administration (SJTA), Puri has requested the Punjab administration to prevent the proposed Rath Yatra scheduled to be held by Jagannath Mandir, Ferozepur Cantonment on May 23, 2026, stating that the observance is not in accordance with the prescribed religious calendar and traditional rituals of Lord Jagannatha.

In a letter dated May 19, 2026, SJTA Chief Administrator Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, IAS, wrote to Ferozepur Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Magistrate Deepshikha Sharma, IAS, expressing concern over publicity materials and social media posts regarding the proposed celebration.

The SJTA stated that, as per traditional tithi and established rituals, Rath Yatra of Lord Shree Jagannatha will be observed on July 16, 2026 this year. It said celebration of the sacred festival on any other date is against scriptural traditions and may hurt the religious sentiments of millions of devotees across India and abroad.

The letter further mentioned that the SJTA Managing Committee, headed by the Gajapati Maharaja of Puri, has consistently opposed such untimely observances in the past.

Seeking immediate intervention, Dr. Padhee requested the district administration to take appropriate steps to stop the proposed Rath Yatra on May 23 and ensure that the festival is observed strictly in accordance with the traditions and scriptural prescriptions of the Moola Pitha of Shree Jagannatha Temple, Puri.

A copy of the letter has also been sent to the Chief Secretary of the Punjab Government for necessary action.