SECOND ANNUAL AT THE FAR EAST COAST

Saturday, June 27th, 2026

St. John's, Newfoundland

In Jagannatha Puri, India, the Ratha Yatra, or Chariot Fest, is celebrated with three massive carts in procession at a distance of three kilometres or two miles down Grand Road. Today, in St. John's, our humble cart was pulled for over six kilometres. That's the longest I've ever experienced. Those who did the entire length are indeed stalwarts. We stuck to the sidewalks and the most beautiful thing is that the sun stuck with us the whole time.

Responses from the public was good. Many motorists honked their horns. We had a flag waving in front of us. I believe that's what gave us the attention. We certainly didn't come across as an activist group with a socio-political message. No! We stood up for peace and love, as we usually do. We are out to spread happiness.

Three mrdunga drums provided a beat in the heat. And if we reflect on this event it is all about goodness. The deities nestled in the cart are Krishna, Balaram and Subhadra and they are on a joy ride from an historical platform. The reenactment of a family reunion of five millennia ago is what is going on.

At a glance of the happy faces of the threesome, you will notice the three basic colours they are painted. And if you want to stretch your imagination you might say they reflect the fundamental human races.

At the start of our mini procession the participants were a nice mix of local people and immigrants (some from Orissa where it all began) and at the final destination point, Bowring Park, a unique blend of people also partook. I would say that the prasadam was okay, prepared with love but still too spicy hot. Thank you organizers. Nice event!

MAY THE SOURCE BE WITH YOU

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