The vibrant Rath Yatra festival of Sri Sri Jagannath Dev a major Hindu religious event has begun with widespread devotion across 15 temples in Paikgachha. The nine-day festival kicked off on Thursday afternoon bringing the streets to life with beautifully decorated chariots and thousands of cheering devotees.
According to Hindu tradition, the festival commemorates Lord Jagannath’s annual journey to his aunt's temple alongside his siblings Balaram and Subhadra. The celebrations feature special pujas, aartis and the distribution of Mahaprasad and will culminate with the 'Ulto Rath Yatra' (the return journey) on July 24.
Prominent local political figures inaugurated the festivities across various unions. Dr. Md. Abdul Majid, Convener of the Paikgachha Upazila BNP Conference Preparation Committee, launched the festival at several temples in Raruli Union joining devotees in pulling the chariot ropes. Former Upazila BNP General Secretary S.M. Enamul Haque and Member Secretary S.M. Imdadul Haque inaugurated the processions at Amurkata Sri Ramakrishna Mission and the upazila headquarters, respectively.
A host of community leaders, temple committee officials, and hundreds of devotees attended the peaceful processions.
The chariots adorned with vibrant flowers and lights paraded through the main roads accompanied by the sounds of conch shells, drums and traditional chants. Local law enforcement maintained strict security measures to ensure a safe, peaceful and joyous environment for all attendees.
