Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Thursday inaugurated the 55th annual ISKCON Rath Yatra in Kolkata by performing the sacred 'Chhera Pahanra' ritual and pulling the ceremonial rope of Lord Jagannath's chariot, marking the formal beginning of one of the city's largest religious celebrations.
The Chief Minister arrived at the ISKCON Temple on Albert Road, where he first offered prayers and performed a traditional aarti of Radha Madhav. He then took part in the centuries-old Chhera Pahanra ritual, symbolically sweeping the path of the chariot with a golden broom before joining hundreds of devotees in tugging the chariot rope as chants of "Jai Jagannath" filled the air. The ritual signifies humility and equality before the Lord, regardless of one's social or political status.
Addressing devotees after the ceremony, Adhikari paid tribute to ISKCON founder A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada, saying he played a pivotal role in taking the Rath Yatra and India's spiritual heritage to more than 100 countries. The Chief Minister said he felt blessed to inaugurate the festival and urged that Srila Prabhupada's ancestral house in Kolkata be declared a protected heritage site.
Adhikari also praised ISKCON for its contributions to society beyond spirituality. He highlighted the organisation's work in healthcare, education, nutrition and humanitarian service, assuring continued cooperation from the state government in welfare initiatives.
Following the inauguration, the grand chariots carrying Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra began their procession through central Kolkata before heading towards Brigade Parade Ground, where devotees will continue to offer prayers and participate in religious programmes over the coming days. Thousands of devotees gathered along the route to witness the colourful procession, making it one of the largest Rath Yatra celebrations in eastern India outside Puri.
The annual ISKCON Rath Yatra has become a significant cultural and spiritual event in Kolkata, attracting devotees from across West Bengal and neighbouring states. With elaborate decorations, devotional music and community participation, the festival celebrates the journey of Lord Jagannath and reinforces the message of devotion, unity and service.
