Kawasaki, June 30: The 18th Annual Rath Yatra, organized by the Odisha Community of Japan with support from their sponsors and patrons, took place in Kawasaki with immense enthusiasm and devotion.
A 4-meter-tall chariot, representing Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra, was pulled by hundreds of participants along a road near Kawasaki Station. The celebration was marked by vibrant cultural performances, dazzling dances, and traditional rituals that mesmerized the audience.
Following the procession, Prasad was distributed to all devotees, continuing the time-honored tradition of the Hindu festival.
The event's schedule included several key moments: Cultural performances began at Kawasaki City Hall at 14:00. The grand procession featuring the chariot and participants started at 15:45. At 17:30, the chariot arrived at Higashida Park, completing its symbolic journey. The parade route stretched from Kawasaki City Hall to Higashida Park, both of which are an 8-minute walk from Kawasaki Station.
This year marked the 18th edition of the Rath Yatra in Kawasaki, with over 1,400 people in attendance. A highlight of the festival was the free distribution of Mahaprasad, generously provided by the NPO Odisha Community Japan.
The event followed a traditional sequence: Puja, Pahandi, cultural performances, chariot pulling, and finally, the distribution of Mahaprasad.
Afterward, the deities were taken to Mausi Maa home, a symbolic resting place, where community members host the deities for a week. The festival concludes with the Bahuda Yatra and the return of the deities to their original abode.
Additionally, the event paid tribute to the soldiers of Pahalgam Valley, honoring their bravery and sacrifices.
