Mahant Nritya Gopal Das Skips Mathura Janmashtami Celebrations Due to Health Reasons

• by Akanksha Mishra
• 2026-09-04 16:06:00

Breaking a long-standing personal tradition, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust President Mahant Nritya Gopal Das will not travel to Mathura to participate in the grand Shri Krishna Janmashtami celebrations this year. Citing persisting health complications and medical advice, the revered seer is currently resting at his ashram in Ayodhya, missing the annual ritualistic anointment (abhishek) of Lord Krishna that he has traditionally performed for decades.

A Heartfelt Letter and Regret Over Missing the Annual Abhishek

For many years, Mahant Nritya Gopal Das's presence in Mathura on Janmashtami has remained a focal point of the spiritual festivities, marked by his active participation in the holy birthplace rituals. Unable to make the journey this time due to his physical condition, the Mahant released a formal letter expressing deep regret to devotees and the saint community. In his message, he noted that visiting Mathura to have darshan of Lord Krishna has always been a profound spiritual experience for him, making his absence this year particularly poignant.

Reiteration of the Mathura Temple Resolution and Call for 'Kar Seva'

While conveying his greetings for the festival, Mahant Nritya Gopal Das used the occasion to reiterate his steadfast stance regarding the liberation and construction of the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple in Mathura. As a stalwart leader historically tied to the Ayodhya Ram Temple movement, his remarks carried immense weight among religious circles.

In his letter, the President of the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Nyas explicitly stated that if saints and sages under the leadership of the Akhara Parishad decide to launch a formal Kar Seva, he will personally participate in the movement. Furthermore, he expressed strong confidence that under the decisive leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, a clear path will eventually be paved for the construction of a grand temple at the sacred Mathura site.

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