ISKCON Toronto celebrated its much-anticipated 52nd annual Ratha Yatra festival this past month, marking the event as the largest in its history and in North America with over 60,000 participants.
Commencing on Friday, July 12th, the festivities kicked off with its famous 12-Hour Kirtan from 10am to 10pm. Participants from around the world flew in to be part of this epic day of dancing and chanting, led by renowned kirtan leaders. This year’s theme, “Spark your bhakti flame by chanting the holy name,” set the tone for a spiritually enriching experience. The temple room was transformed with lights, lanterns, and red, orange, and pink fabrics to give the feel of warmth and light of a blazing fire of bhakti. The kirtan was an ecstatic, immersive, and transformative experience for all, with hundreds in attendance.
Prasadam was served in the park behind the temple, and Govinda’s, the temple’s restaurant, offered special treats and eats for the attendees throughout the day. For those unable to attend in person, the kirtan was broadcast live on Facebook and YouTube.
The following day, Saturday, July 13th, Lord Jagannatha, Baladeva, and Subhadra were placed on magnificent chariots adorned with garlands and decorations. Devotees, emotional and excited to see Their Lordships after a two-week sojourn, joyfully pulled the chariots down Yonge Street, accompanied by energetic and soul-stirring kirtan in front of each one. The vibrant parade was attended by thousands and created an awe-inspiring spectacle for onlookers. The procession culminated at the Harbourfront, where attendees gathered to board ferries to Centre Island, where the festivities continued on Saturday and Sunday, July 14th. Their Lordships were transported across Lake Ontario after the parade to the “Temple on the Island,” giving a unique opportunity to have a close-up darshan of the deities.
Read more: https://iskconnews.org/iskcon-toronto-celebrates-largest-rathayatra-in-north-america/
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