Devotees taking part in the chariot procession at Sri Selva Vinayagar Temple in Taman Inderawasih, Perai. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star
IN A break from tradition, the Ratha Yatra festival was celebrated at two temples on Penang mainland, drawing hundreds of devotees in a vibrant display of faith and tradition.
The chariot procession, a hallmark of the annual festival, saw worshippers coming together to pull the sacred chariot.
Organised by Sri Sri Radha Krishna Kanhaiya Temple (Iskcon) Seberang Jaya and Janananda Goswami Sishya Samuha (JGSS) Malaysia, the procession commenced at 6pm from Sri Selva Vinayagar Temple in Taman Inderawasih, Perai.
The chariot, adorned with the statue of Bhaktivedanta Swami (Srila Prabhupada) – the revered founder of Iskcon – journeyed approximately 500m to the Sri Kalikaambal Temple, with devotees pulling the ropes in an act of deep reverence.
Ratha Yatra is an ancient Hindu festival celebrating the divine journey of Lord Jagannath (Krishna), Balabhadra and Subhadra, symbolising their grand procession through the streets in a chariot (ratha).
The statue of Srila Prabhupada on the chariot.
This year’s celebration was infused with a lively cultural showcase, featuring peacock dancers, drummers and a karagattam performance, which is a traditional Tamil folk dance where participants balance pots on their heads while moving rhythmically.
Adding a multicultural touch, a lion dance troupe also joined the procession, moving in harmony with the vibrant music and dance.
JGSS Malaysia founder Jagabandhu Dasa said holding the chariot festival in Perai was aimed at extending Iskcon Seberang Jaya’s spiritual reach to local communities within a 5km to 30km radius.
“We want to bring Lord Jagannath’s mercy to every corner of Malaysia, instead of holding the event in the same location each year.
“This marks the first time Iskcon Malaysia’s Ratha Yatra has started and ended at demigod temples, symbolising mutual respect and understanding,” said Jagabandhu.
Sundarajoo (wearing garland) watching a lion dance.
Adding to the event’s significance, renowned spiritual master Janananda Goswami Maharaj travelled from France to bless the occasion and witness the festivities first-hand.
Jagabandhu expressed hopes that the celebration would contribute to spiritual tourism in Penang, potentially earning a place in the state’s official tourism calendar.
The festival saw the participation of devotees from across peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak, uniting in devotion and festivity.
Penang executive councillor and Perai assemblyman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo launched the event and took part in the grand procession.
