On the 20th of June, 2023, the city of Jhenaidah in Bangladesh celebrated the three grand Ratha Yatra, a vibrant and significant event in the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition.
Rath Yatra, the grand procession of Lord Jagannath, is a momentous spiritual event celebrated annually in the city of Jhenaidah, Bangladesh. Jhenaidah District, located in southwestern Bangladesh as part of the Khulna Division, holds special significance in the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition due to its connections with renowned spiritual personalities.
The birthplace of Srila Loknath Goswami, a prominent associate of Caitanya Mahaprabhu, is situated in Jhenaidah’s Talkhari village. The descendants of Srila Loknath Goswami’s younger brother, Pragalabh, still reside in Talkhari, preserving the spiritual heritage of the area. Additionally, during the British era, Jhenaidah had the privilege of hosting Thakur Bhaktivinod, a revered spiritual figure and judge. The visit of Caitanya Mahaprabhu to Jhenaidah further solidified the deep connection between the city and Gaudiya Vaishnavism.
The Rath Yatra celebration in Jhenaidah city is jointly organized by the Shri Shri Jagannath Temple, Bujitala, Vedic City, and the Central Temple of Jhenaidah District. These temples attract thousands of devotees from different neighborhoods of the city. The event is led by the esteemed spiritual guidance of HH Subhag Swami.
The disciples of HH Subhag Swami, led by HG Bhaktiratna das, along with approximately 15 full-time Brahmacari devotees, are diligently preparing for the grand Rath Yatra celebration. They are making splendid arrangements, ensuring every detail is taken care of to create a memorable and spiritually enriching experience for all participants.
Srila Prabhupada showed that no other material endeavors to achieve unity among the people of the world would be as effective as the festival of carts. Spiritual activities like Ratha-yatra would do a lot in creating unity by bringing all under the shelter of Lord Jagannatha.
The inauguration of the Rath Yatra involves the presence of esteemed local dignitaries, including Mayor Mr.saidul korim Mintu and Chairman of the Hindu-Buddhist Council, Babu Narayan Chandra Biswas. Political and Hindu community leaders, as well as officers-in-charge of the local police station, also attend the inauguration of the chariot procession.
The procession itself is inaugurated by several other political figures and Hindu leaders. Prominent attendees include the Chairman of the Bangladesh Puja Celebration Committee, the General Editor of the Bangladesh Awami League District Central Committee, and the Chairman of the District Council, Babu Konok Kanti Das. The vibrant procession comprises approximately five to six thousand devotees from different neighborhoods of Jhenaidah city. Prasad (holy offering) is distributed among the devotees. The grand procession commences at Baroari Mandir (temple) and culminates at Masir Bari Central Mandir (temple). The chanting of Lord Jagannath’s eternal glory by thousands of devotees fills the entire city of Jhenaidah, heightening their enthusiasm and devotion.
The procession commences from Baroari Mandir, also known as the Twelve-pillared Temple, and concludes at the Madan Mohan Mandir in “Masir Bari” Central Temple.
Devotees enthusiastically participate in the procession, fervently chanting the sacred names of Lord Jagannath, such as “Jay Jagannath,” and the Hare Krishna Mahamantra. The reverberating sounds fill the atmosphere with a profound spiritual energy. People dance with such joy and abandon that it seems as if they are leaping towards the heavens. The rhythmic beats of the Mridanga and Kartal instruments compel everyone to sway and move, expressing their deep devotion.
Since the morning, the distribution of Prasadam, sacred food offered to the Lord, had been ongoing. Despite heavy rains prior to the commencement of the Ratha Yatra, thousands of volunteers wearing identical Genji attire appeared like divine beings. These garments were later distributed among the devotees as well, symbolizing unity and shared devotion.
The Rath Yatra tradition originated in Puri, where millions of people gather annually to witness the grand procession. Thanks to the efforts of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder of ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness), the celebration of Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra has expanded to cities and countries worldwide. Through his endeavors, countless souls across the globe have received the grace and mercy of Lord Jagannath.
We are delighted to inform you that the devotees of Jhenaidah successfully organized three Similar Ratha Yatra festivals in Jhenaidah City, Bhujitala Village, and Harinikunda. With the blessings of HH Subhag Swami and Srila Prabhupada, these festivals were a great success.
HG Maniram Prabhu played a key role as the main leader in Bhujitala Village, while HG KarunaSagar Prabhu led the festivities in Harinikunda. Prasadam distribution was carried out extensively in all three locations, adding to the joyous atmosphere.
Currently, the festivities continue for nine days, featuring stage dramas, Harikatha, and Prasadam distribution. These activities serve as a wonderful platform for devotees and the local community to come together, celebrate, and deepen their spiritual connection.
Congratulations once again on the successful organization of these Ratha Yatra festivals. May the remaining days be filled with blissful celebrations, enlightening discourses, and the sharing of sacred Prasadam.
The Rath Yatra in Jhenaidah, along with similar celebrations in various parts of the world, offers devotees an opportunity to deepen their devotion to Lord Jagannath and seek His blessings and divine audience. It serves as a reminder of the rich spiritual heritage of Jhenaidah and the profound impact of Lord Jagannath’s mercy on devotees worldwide.
Source: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=109615
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