Agartala, July 5:
Tripura Governor Indra Sena Reddy Nallu inaugurated the return leg of the Rath Yatra festival organized by ISKCON at the Purbasha Mela Ground in Agartala on Saturday afternoon. The vibrant event marked the culmination of the annual chariot procession of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra.
The return Rath Yatra, also known as Ulto Rath, witnessed the participation of hundreds of devotees from across the city and nearby areas. The ceremonial event included traditional rituals, devotional singing (kirtan), and the pulling of the decorated chariot amidst chants of “Jai Jagannath.”
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Reddy highlighted the spiritual and cultural significance of the Rath Yatra, calling it a symbol of unity, devotion, and tradition. He praised ISKCON’s role in promoting cultural heritage and spreading the message of peace and devotion across the globe.
“Rath Yatra is not just a religious celebration but also a reminder of our deep-rooted spiritual values. I am pleased to see the enthusiastic participation of people from all walks of life,” the Governor said.
The festival, organized annually by ISKCON Agartala, began with the main Rath Yatra earlier last week, during which the deities were ceremoniously taken from the temple to the Gundicha Mandir. Today’s event marked their symbolic return to the main temple.
Senior ISKCON officials, devotees, cultural performers, and members of the public attended the event, which took place in a peaceful and festive atmosphere, under tight security arrangements.
With religious fervor and cultural splendor on display, the return Rath Yatra once again underscored the enduring appeal of Lord Jagannath’s annual journey and ISKCON’s efforts in preserving age-old traditions in modern times.
