Every summer, the Lord of the Universe, Jagannath, His brother, Balarama, and sister, Subhadra, are brought out of the Temple to the streets to bless everyone with Their loving large-eyed glances. This festival dates back thousands of years originating in Puri, India, where it still takes place and is attended by millions of devotees annually. The smiling Lord Jagannath and His siblings ride on huge beautifully decorated wooden chariots, pulled by the hands of Their devotees in a grand procession in the streets of most major cities in the world. Here in the UK, there are more than 13 Rathayatra festivals across the nation, the largest street parade being in London. London Rathayatra starts in Hyde Park and ends in Trafalgar Square where there is a large cultural festival.
Rathayatra - The Festival of Chariots
SUNDAY, 30 JULY 2023