For the very first time the Lord Jagannath Festival is being celebrated in Suva and Hare Krishna movement devotee, Rajesh Maharaj said it would be celebrated every year.

The festival is commonly known as the Rath Yatra or the Festival of Chariots.

“This year the festival is being organised and celebrated by the devotees of Shree Satsang Ramayan Mandali in Lami, the devotees of Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Toorak and the Hare Krishna society,” Mr Maharaj said.

He said the festival gave the opportunity for people in Suva to see Lord Jagannath and receive his blessings.

“Lord Jagannath is the lord of the universe and it is a traditional Vedic festival which has its roots in Jagnnath Temple of Puri in India.”

Mr Maharaj said the festival happens every year around the world and in many cities it was introduced by the Hare Krishna movement.

“The significance of this festival is to invite the lord into our hearts as described by the pulling of the cart. This festival is a festival that brings people together,” he said.

Rashika Prasad, 21, of Lami said the celebration was part of their belief that they would get more blessings and whatever they asked of him, he would provide.

“In this festival we offer ‘Prasad’ or fruits and halwa and sanctified food to the people,” she said.

Mandali devotee Ranjeeta Mishra said she believed that she would get more blessings after being part of the festival.

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