The ISKCON Boston temple organized it’s one of the biggest festivals, Ratha Yatra which is a public procession with a chariot with deities Jagannath (Vishnu avatar), Balabhadra (his brother), Subhadra (his sister). It attracted more than 3000 devotees who joined the unforgettable procession event on Sunday, June 30, 2019, that was held promptly at 12:00 AM from 1 Cambria Street to Boston Common Park amidst ecstatic singing, unique music, drumming, and dancing by the devotees in the colorful traditional costumes which created a wondrous atmosphere. All the devotes batch by batch hand-pulled Chariot with ropes forward and also swept the road for the chariot with great devotion and consecration.

Shri Rama Raya Prabhu along with 15 Bramhacaris from Harinam Ashram, New York City graced the procession with their presence among the devotees. Smt. Kishori Group from Alachua, Shri HH Chandrashekhar Swami, Shri HH Niranjana Swami, Shri Chaitanya Bhagavat, Smt. Anasuya - Dasi Group, Shri Ramaroy were the chief guest of the event and sang beautifully the live Parade Kirtans. Onlookers were speechless by the parade and were busy in taking pictures and recording video clippings.

Following more than 2 miles spectacular parade, a grand celebration awaited the crowd, including an exhibition showcasing India´s spirituality and culture.  The festival site featured tents with various forms of entertainment, dancing, live music, a free lunch Prasadam, shopping, Vedic culture, literature, arts, and a Q&A tent with many more kid activities in the surrounding area.

Lord Jagannatha arrival kirtans were sung by the devotees and Radhika Patel welcomed all the devotes to the post parade event.  Thought provoking talks were given by Shri HH, Niranjana Swami, Shri HH Jayadvaita Swami and HH Chandrashekhar Swami.  Smt. Suchita Rao, Kishori Yatra group, Ms, Chatamayi and DASI Group sang beautiful kirtans and also made the devotees to sing with them. Adorable dances were performed by DASI group, Ms. Karuna, and Ms. Melissa. Closing words were delivered by Shri Madhavanand Prabhu. Shri. Vanamali Pandit Dasa thanked all the participants for their active participation in the event and making it a grand success. He also thanked sponsors for their support and help making the ISKCON Boston temple’s dream cum true. He appreciated with much gratitude all the volunteers time and services.

My whole family enjoyed exploring the unique cultural, educational displays and exhibitions, as well as a complimentary feast, revealing the spiritual heart of India – said one of the participants.

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