NEWS WAVE INDIA: In a world marked by increasing mental health challenges, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) is set to host the Kolkata Rathayatra with the theme of “Mental Peace.” With the aim of offering solace and tranquility, devotees will guide attendees on how to achieve mental peace even in the face of adversity. The event is scheduled to take place on 20th June 2023, starting at 1pm from the ISKCON temple located at 3C Albert Road, near Minto Park.
The Hon’ble Chief Minister of West Bengal, Sushri Mamata Banerjee, will be the esteemed Chief Guest and inaugurate the Rathayatra. The event, which has become the second largest Rathayatra after Jaganath Puri’s Rathayatra, draws over 15 to 16 lakhs people annually. ISKCON has been organizing Rathayatras in more than 170 countries and over 800 cities and towns worldwide since its inception in 1972 by the founder Acharya, His Divine Grace A.C Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.
The Rathayatra festivities will commence with the Pahandi Vijay at 8am, where Lord Jagannath, Baladev, and Subhadra Devi will walk to their respective chariots from the ISKCON temple. A cultural program will take place in front of Lord Jagannath from 10am to 1pm. The Hon’ble Chief Minister’s arrival at 1pm will be accompanied by a dance performance by Dona Ganguly and her troupe, followed by the inauguration program. The Rathayatra itself will commence at 2pm.
The Rathayatra route will cover 3C Albert Road (ISKCON Temple), Hungerford Street, A.J.C Bose Road, Sarat Bose Road, Hazra Road, S.P.M Road, A.T.M Road, Chowringhee Road, Exide Crossing, J.L Nehru Road, and finally reach the Brigade Parade ground.
The Rathayatra festival will continue at the Brigade Parade Ground from 21st to 27th June 2023, between 4pm and 8.30pm daily. Attendees, along with their families, are invited to visit and seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath, Baladev, and Subhadra Devi. Various cultural programs, including dance performances, dramas, kirtans, and magic shows, will entertain the audience. Free Kichadi Mahaprasadam distribution, spiritual books, and books for children will also be available.
The highlight of the Rathayatra will be the three chariots for Lord Jagannath, Baladev, and Subhadra Devi, along with three trolleys showcasing different pastimes of the Lord and His devotees. Additionally, four mini vans will depict various pastimes performed by children. The ISKCON chariots possess unique features, including collapsible canopies for easy movement and sturdy iron wheels to support the heavy structures.
ISKCON, founded in 1966, is a global spiritual institution that promotes love, peace, and spiritual enlightenment. The organization’s activities and festivals, such as the Rathayatra, aim to spread these principles across the world. As mental health concerns continue to rise, the Kolkata Rathayatra serves as a beacon of hope, providing attendees with spiritual knowledge and guidance towards achieving mental peace in challenging times.