The annual Rath Yatra festival, one of the most significant religious events for the Hindu community, began on Friday with a vibrant procession in Dhaka. The festival will conclude on 5 July with the return journey of the chariot, known as the ‘Ulto Rath Yatra’.
Organised by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), the grand procession started at 3:00 pm from the ISKCON temple in Swamibagh. The chariot parade followed a traditional route, passing through Joykali Mandir intersection, Ittefaq crossing, Shapla Chattar, Dainik Bangla intersection, Baitul Mukarram North Gate, Paltan intersection, Press Club, Kadam Fountain, High Court Mazar, Doel Chattar, Central Shaheed Minar, Jagannath Hall, Palashi, and concluded at the Dhakeshwari National Temple.
Various temples across the capital have arranged programmes to mark the occasion. ISKCON Dhaka is hosting a nine-day series of events in celebration of Rath Yatra.
To ensure the safety and security of the participants, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) deployed a large number of personnel throughout the procession route.
Deputy Commissioner of the DMP’s Media and Public Relations Division, Mohammad Talebur Rahman, stated that comprehensive security measures were in place to prevent any untoward incidents. Security was reinforced at key points along the procession route in line with a detailed safety plan.