By Atma Tattva Das
On September 21, 2024, the streets of Rose Belle, Mauritius, hosted the Rathayatra Festival, an important festival on the Vaishnava calendar. The event featured a procession involving the deities Lord Jagannath, Baladev, and Subhadra. It was organized by a team of volunteers led by Kaunteya, a prominent figure in ISKCON Mauritius.
Kaunteya’s journey in Krishna consciousness began in 1989 when he joined the temple as a new devotee. His dedication quickly found expression in various services, from book distribution to organizing festivals. “I was initiated by His Holiness Bhakti Charu Swami in 1992,” Kaunteya shared, reflecting on the early years of his spiritual journey. He earned his Bhakti Shastri certificate in 1993 at the Vrindavan Institute of Higher Education (VIHE) and later took on roles as a restaurant manager, festival organizer, and Namahatta Director. Today, while running his restaurant, he manages the preaching center in Rose Belle and continues his lifelong service to Srila Prabhupada’s ISKCON by organizing one of the most anticipated festivals on the island.
Rathayatra, the Festival of Chariots, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees around the world, and in Mauritius, it’s no different. “Rathayatra is probably the oldest festival,” Kaunteya explained. “A special festival whereby all are attracted, including mayavadis.” The festival is unique in that it brings Lord Jagannath out of the temple to bless everyone, regardless of their spiritual background. This year, Rose Belle witnessed a grand celebration that drew devotees and curious onlookers alike.
Read more: https://iskconnews.org/celebrating-lord-jagannaths-journey-in-rose-belle/
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