Rath Yatra at Daytona Beach
Daytona beach News Journel
Oldest parade comes through Daytona Beach
Staff report
May 31, 2011 12:05 AM
Posted in: East Volusia
The 3rd Annual Festival of the Chariots and Ratha Yatra Parade procession heads north from Daytona Beach from the Bandshell on Monday. The Ratha Yatra Parade, originating in India, is the oldest known parade in the world. (N-J | Jim Tiller)
Memorial Day beachgoers experienced a taste of India in Daytona Beach on Monday. The procession, which started and ended at the Bandshell, was part of the 3rd annual Festival of the Chariots and Ratha Yatra Parade.
The Ratha Yatra Parade is said to be the oldest known parade in the world. It represents the movement of Krishna, in the form of Jagannath, to his aunt's home, and parades are held yearly around the world.To believers, pulling the chariot or even watching brings spiritual benefit.
Decorated in brightly covered flowers, the chariot in Daytona Beach included figures of Hindu deities, such as Jagannath (Krishna), Baladeva (Krishna's elder brother) and Subhadra (Krishna's younger sister). Along the way, musicians and dancers performed along the crowded beach before returning to the Bandshell for a free vegetarian feast for the community.
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