Bhubaneswar, May 20: The district administration of Ferozepur in Punjab has deferred the proposed Rath Yatra at the Shri Jagannath Temple in Ferozepur Cantonment following objections raised by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), Puri, over the festival being scheduled on a non-traditional date.

The SJTA, in a communication issued on May 19, expressed concern over organising the Rath Yatra on “random” or unapproved dates, stating that such deviations could hurt the religious sentiments of Jagannath devotees across the country. The temple in Ferozepur had planned to hold the festival on May 23, which did not align with the traditional calendar followed by the historic Jagannath Temple.

Acting promptly on the SJTA’s objection, the Ferozepur district administration convened a meeting with the temple organisers on Wednesday. During the discussion, officials explained the religious significance and customary timing of the annual Rath Yatra as observed in Puri, regarded as the principal seat of Lord Jagannath worship.

Following the meeting, the temple authorities submitted written consent agreeing to postpone the proposed procession. Officials said the decision was taken to preserve religious sanctity and uphold long-standing traditions associated with the world-famous Rath Yatra festival.

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