Ratha Yatra Festival 2024 Singapore | Chariot Festival | International Sri Krishna Mandir Singapore

Ratha Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is a significant Hindu festival that originated in the city of Puri in Odisha, India. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, who is often revered as the "Lord of the Universe" (a form of Krishna), his sister Subhadra, and his brother Balabhadra. During the festival, the deities are placed on large, elaborately decorated chariots and pulled through the streets by devotees. This procession symbolizes the annual journey of Lord Jagannath to his birthplace, Gundicha Temple. After nine days, the deities return to the Jagannath Temple in a journey called the Bahuda Yatra. This return journey also involves grand processions and ceremonies, marking the end of the Ratha Yatra festival. The festival attracts millions of participants and is celebrated with great enthusiasm, not only in Puri but also in various parts of India and the world.
Similar to the traditional celebration in Puri, a chariot procession is held in Singapore where the deities of Lord Jagannath, Subhadra, and Balabhadra are placed on a beautifully decorated chariot. Devotees pull the chariot through the stadium, accompanied by singing, chanting, and dancing.
As part of the festivities, prasadam (sanctified food) is prepared and distributed to all attendees. This usually includes a variety of vegetarian dishes.
The celebration of Ratha Yatra in Singapore is a vibrant and joyous occasion, reflecting the deep devotion and cultural pride of the Hindu community there.
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