The festival was recently held in Durban.
Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Newspapers
Join the vibrant celebration of the Fourth Annual Festival of Chariots in Sandton, Johannesburg, on May 3 and 4, featuring a street parade, cultural performances, and a special Sannyasa initiation ceremony.
The festival, commonly known as Ratha Yatra, will be hosted by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (Iskcon), Sandton Temple, and will be held at Sandown High School from 10am to 8pm.
"This year’s theme celebrates unity in our community and is titled, 'Culturally Many, Spiritually One'," said Krsangi Radhe dasi, the Communications Director of Iskcon SA.
"The festival has gained momentum and has become an attraction in the city, drawing thousands of local and international guests. Steeped in tradition and spirituality, the festival aims to foster social cohesion and celebrate the diversity and cultural inclusiveness of our rainbow community. By celebrating and embracing our differences, we promote and strengthen nation building."
She said the festival would feature religious and cultural groups.
"The highlight is the street parade on May 3 that will culminate in a street market of vegetarian food and holistic wellness."
Local and international leaders who will attend include, His Holiness Bhakti Caitanya Swami (South Africa), His Holiness Bhakti Narsimha Swami (South Africa), His Holiness Rama Govinda Swami (Botswana/India), His Holiness Bhakti Prachar Parivraja Swami (India), His Holiness Bhakti Dhira Damodara Swami (Nigeria) and His Holiness SB Keshava Swami (London).
Two other special guests include Srivas Das from Ghana and Savyasachi Das from South Africa.
Radhe dasi said one of the highlights on May 4 was the Sannyasa initiation of Savyasachi Das from South Africa, who is also known as ‘Savya the monk’.
"Sannyasa initiation signifies a profound commitment to a life of spiritual discipline, detachment from worldly desires and continually seeking the journey of self-realisation. Savyasachi is a dedicated disciple of Bhakti Charu Swami Maharaj. He will receive the sacred order of Sannyasa conferred by Bhakti Dhira Damodara Swami Maharaj."
Another highlight is the colour fest starting at 10am at the Sandown grounds.
Entrance to the event is free and includes activities the whole family can participate in. There is a special tent dedicated to kids’ entertainment.
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