The GBC Executive Committee has issued the following statement announcing the establishment of the Puri Official Committee to coordinate ISKCON’s engagement concerning Ratha-yatra observances outside India and relations with the leadership of the Jagannath Puri temple:
Update on the Formation of the “Puri Engagement Committee”
Hare Krishna Dear Devotees,
Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
The GBC Executive Committee has established the Puri Official Committee to coordinate ISKCON’s engagement regarding the observance of Ratha-yatra outside India and ISKCON’s interactions with leaders of Jagannath Puri temple, especially the King of Puri and his administration.
The Committee has been entrusted with developing a coordinated approach that safeguards ISKCON’s devotees, projects, reputation, and other assets while fostering respectful and constructive dialogue. Its work will include assessing the issues involved, coordinating communications and engagement, articulating ISKCON’s position regarding Ratha-yatra dates, and preparing recommendations for consideration by the GBC at its upcoming Mid-Term Meeting and beyond.
The Committee held its inaugural meeting on 6 August 2026, during which it adopted its Terms of Reference, confirmed its membership, and agreed on its working procedures.
The Committee members are Govardhana Dasa (GBC, Convenor), Gauranga Dasa (GBC, Puri Committee), Anuttama Dasa (GBC Minister of Communications), Parijata Devi Dasi (GBC Communications, GBC ESO), Braj Hari Dasa (ISKCON Bureau, Puri Committee), Krishna Kirti Dasa (Convenor, ISKCON India Scholars Board), Brajprem Dasa (President, ISKCON Puri Project), and Mukunda Chaitanya Dasa (Gajapati Dist. Duty Officer, Odisha). Advisory and support are provided by Nanda Kishor Dasa (GBC Executive Support Office – ESO).
The Committee has commenced its work and will engage with the relevant stakeholders over the coming weeks. It will also keep ISKCON’s devotees periodically informed as its work progresses.
The GBC Executive Committee requests devotees to keep the Committee and its service in their prayers.
A .pdf of the statement can be found here.
Source: https://iskconnews.org/gbc-establishes-puri-engagement-committee-on-ratha-yatra/
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