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Ram Rath Yatra across North America
As of Mar. 31, 2024, the US leg of the Yatra traversed nearly 100 temples across various states, covering approximately 4,000 miles
ISKCON New Vrindavan, Moundsville, West Virginia / Special arrangement
The Shri Ram Rath Yatra Initiated by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA) and its Canadian counterpart, went across North America with connecting Hindu temples throughout the United States and Canada, this 60-day expedition covers a distance of more than 16,000 miles, spanning over 850 temples in the US and 150 in Canada.
The inaugural ceremony for the US leg of the Yatra commenced on Mar. 23, 2024, coinciding with the festival of Holi, at the VHPA headquarters in Sugar Grove, Illinois The yatra covered over 500 miles and visited nine temples on its first day.
Bharat Mata Mandir, Brampton, Ontario / Special arrangementAccording to the organising committee, the objective of this initiative is to foster unity among Hindu communities and traditions across the continent. The Yatra aims to share the spiritual significance of the Shri Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha ceremony held in India on Jan. 22, 2024.
The Yatra is facilitated by three specially designed Raths (chariots), each adorned with imagery of Shri Ram Lalla across North America.
Hindu Temple of New Hampshire, Nashua, New Hampshire / Special arrangement
In Canada, the Yatra began on Mar. 25 with ceremonies at the Vishnu Temple in Richmond Hill, Ontario. The Canadian inauguration featured the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, followed by a puja specifically for the Rath.
As of Mar. 31, 2024, the US leg of the Yatra traversed nearly 100 temples across various states, covering approximately 4,000 miles. Each temple visit, though brief, followed a precise protocol, with the sacred idol of Shri Ram Lalla being reverently installed and rituals conducted.
Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Ontario / Special arrangementMeanwhile, the Canadian contingent of the Yatra focused its efforts within the Greater Toronto area, making stops at approximately twelve temples and journeying around 900 miles. Noteworthy events included a visit to Parliament Hill in Ottawa, where Shri Ram Lalla was honored, marking a significant moment of cultural and spiritual acknowledgment.
Moving forward, the US team will be travelling in the states of Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey, while the Canadian team will divide its focus between provinces, culminating their journey with visits to numerous temples in the Greater Toronto Area.
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