Over 20,000 Join 53rd Jagannath Rath Yatra In Canada, Celebrating Indian Culture Abroad
More than 20,000 people, including a large number of Indians living in Canada, gathered in Toronto on July 12 for the grand 53rd annual Jagannath Rath Yatra, one of India’s most revered and ancient religious festivals. The event, organized by ISKCON Toronto, brought together a vibrant mix of cultures, showcasing deep-rooted devotion and colorful Indian traditions.
The chariot procession, also known as the Festival of India, traveled 4.5 kilometers through the city streets, culminating at Toronto Island, where celebrations continued with devotional singing, dancing, and traditional Indian vegetarian feasts (mahaprasad). Enthusiastic crowds, dressed in traditional Indian attire, chanted “Jai Jagannath” as they pulled the intricately decorated chariot of Lord Jagannath, accompanied by those of his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra.
This year’s festival saw remarkable participation from the Indian diaspora, including devotees from cities across Canada, originally hailing from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and other Indian states. Among the crowd were many women, children, and international participants, all drawn together by the spiritual and cultural significance of the event.
Rajiv Mehta, originally from Bilimora, shared, “Even though we live far from Toronto, our family never misses this event. After Diwali, this is the most important celebration for the Indian community here. It makes us feel connected to home.” Hiral Mehta added, “Just like in Gujarat, the preparations here begin well in advance. Thousands come from all over the country. For one day, Toronto transforms into a mini-India.”
The Rath Yatra has become more than a religious event, it’s a social and emotional anchor for Indians living abroad. Ankit Patel and Milan Prajapati, both working professionals from Surat, noted that such festivals help them cope with homesickness. “Being away from family can feel isolating, but during these festivals, we feel that connection again. It’s like having a piece of home here.”
The celebration also highlighted community responsibility. Volunteers were seen cleaning the streets as the procession moved forward, collecting flower petals and discarded materials, blending spiritual fervor with civic awareness.
The festival reaffirmed that even miles away from the homeland, cultural traditions not only survive, they thrive. With devotional music, joyful dance, and shared meals, the Rath Yatra in Toronto continues to be a heartfelt celebration of faith, community, and Indian identity in the global diaspora.
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