Over 1500 devotees participated in the annual Rath Yatra celebrations organized by the BAPS Mandir in Kolkata. This year the procession also highlighted the BAPS Centenary Year.
The colorful procession featured decorative chariots bearing the murtis of Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj, Lord Jagannathji and others; devotees from Orissa singing bhajans in their traditional style; BAPS youths of the Pramukh Dhvani Band playing traditional tunes; traditionally dressed women devotees carrying auspicious kalashes on their heads; and many other eye-catching items.
The Rath Yatra commenced with the customary Vedic rituals and then the invited dignitaries joined the BAPS sadhus in pulling the main chariot in traditional fashion.
From 3.30 pm to 7.00 pm the spectacular procession passed through the streets of Kolkata, and was joyously and devoutly received by many thousands of well-wishers.