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Rajasthan : An untimely Rath Yatra proposed in Rajasthan’s Sikar district was halted after the Puri district administration objected to the event, stating that it did not align with the traditional calendar followed for Lord Jagannath’s annual chariot festival.
Acting on a communication from the Puri Collector, Sikar District Magistrate Ashish Modi directed officials to stop the Rath Yatra that was scheduled for July 10. The Superintendent of Police was instructed to take necessary action, while the local tehsildar appealed to the organisers not to proceed with the event.
The procession was to be organised by the Vishwa Sanatan Dharma Seva Sansthan and Shri Khatu Shyam Mandal. Following the directions, the Sikar administration imposed strict restrictions to prevent the untimely celebration.
In its letter, the Puri administration said the proposed Rath Yatra was not in accordance with the religious traditions and rituals associated with Lord Jagannath. It urged the Rajasthan administration to ensure that the festival is observed only on the prescribed date as per established customs.
A copy of the directive was also sent to the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) of Dantaramgarh with instructions to maintain close vigilance.
The administration further warned that organisations conducting festivals linked to Jagannath culture must strictly follow scriptural traditions and the traditional almanac. It cautioned that any violation of these norms could invite strict action in the future.
