Bhubaneswar: As the world-famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath and siblings was celebrated with religious fervour, people from the state staying abroad also kept their culture and tradition alive by organising the annual festival with devotion.
As per information received from abroad, the Odia community in Bahrain celebrated Rath Yatra and participated in chariot pulling with devotion and grandeur on Sunday.
The car festival was celebrated by Bahrain Odia Samaj as well as Iskcon Bahrain in the famous Shrinathji Temple at Manama amid huge fanfare.
According to sources, founder of Bahrain Odia Samaj Arun Kumar Praharaj performed the Chhera Pahanra ritual of the Trinity on the colourful chariot.
Organisers said the Odia Samaj is celebrating Rath Yatra in Bahrain for the last two-and-a-half decades.
Praharaj reportedly said that Rath Yatra was celebrated as per the rituals and tradition of Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri.
The chariot pulling started after Pahandi Bije and Chhera Pahanra. Mahaprasad sevan and sankirtan programme were also organised on the occasion.
Around 10,000 devotees, mostly members of the Odia community, participated the car festival which was celebrated with pomp and gaiety.