Bahrain Odia Samaj Celebrates Grand Rathayatra with Devotion and Unity
The Bahrain Odia Samaj, in collaboration with ISKCON Kanoo Garden, enthusiastically celebrated the world-famous Rathayatra – the festival of unity and devotion – on Friday, June 27.
Following the sacred traditions of the Puri Rathayatra, the three divine Deities – Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Mata Subhadra – were ceremoniously brought from the ISKCON Temple, Kanoo Garden, to Adhari Park, where the grand Rathayatra festival was held.
A large number of devotees joined in pulling the chariot amidst the chanting of 'Haribol' and 'Jai Jagannath,' accompanied by the sounds of bells and drums. As per traditional custom, the President of Bahrain Odia Samaj, Shri Ramachandra Sahu, and Shri Shri Radha Gopal Krishna Temple's Yadavapati Krishnadas Prabhu and Prashant Prabhu performed the Chhera Pahanra ritual on the chariot, after which the chariot began its procession.
The Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Bahrain, H.E. Mr. Vinod K. Jacob, graced the event as the chief guest. He addressed the large gathering of devotees about Rathayatra and commended all members of Bahrain Odia Samaj for their active participation in spreading the socio-cultural heritage of India, especially Odisha, in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Bahrain Odia Samaj Treasurer Priyadatt Roy, Cultural Secretary Ankita Nayak, and Sports Secretary Ameresh Panda discussed Jagannath culture in the presence of devotees. General Secretary of the society Shantanu Senapati and Public Relations Secretary Amarnath Subudhi expressed that celebrating Rath Yatra abroad is a matter of great fortune for every Odia diaspora member.
A variety of Mahaprasad, including the traditional Chhappan Bhoga, was prepared and offered to the Lord on the chariot. The event was a joyous celebration for all devotees and attendees.
The festivities will continue for nine days, culminating with the Bahuda Yatra (Return Journey) on July 5.
President of the Bahrain Odia Society, Shri Ramachandra Sahu, addressed the devotees, stating that celebrating Rath Yatra in Bahrain is a testament to the play and mercy of Lord Jagannath. He thanked all members of the Odia diaspora for organizing the Rath Yatra program in a traditional manner and discussed ways to strengthen the organization and further spread Jagannath culture and tradition, as well as how to organize Rath Yatra in Bahrain every year. Finally, Joint General Secretary Shri Sarada Patnaik extended a vote of thanks to all the devotees.
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