In the heart of South Africa, a dedicated team of devotees has come together to form the African Ratha Yatra Alliance or ARYA. Led by Baladev Jagannath Das, the coordinator of programs and logistics, ARYA has been enthusiastically working to bring the devotional vibrancy of Ratha Yatra festivals to different corners of Africa. In a recent interview, Baladev shared the inspiring journey of ARYA and shed light on the challenges they have faced along the way.
The origins of ARYA can be traced back to the first Soweto Ratha Yatra in 2007 when Baladev had a serendipitous encounter with Kadamba Kanana Swami. This encounter led to his involvement in coordinating the Lenasia Ratha Yatra festivals. When the original coordinator fell ill, Baladev took up the mantle and organized the Randburg Ratha Yatra with his team, marking the beginning of ARYA’s journey.
ARYA’s first event, held in a humble community hall in Windsor East, Randburg – Johannesburg, was a resounding success. As the years went by, the festival grew in size and popularity, eventually moving to larger venues such as George Lea Park and The Parktonian Club – Sandton. With each passing year, the festival attracted more attendees and required a larger budget, demonstrating the community’s appreciation for the event.
Read more: https://iskconnews.org/groundbreaking-initiative-expanding-ratha-yatra-festivals-in-africa/
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