Jagannātha Swāmī Ratha Yatras
Ratha Yatra is one of the most anticipated highlights of the Vaishnava calendar. In His infinite kindness, Lord Jagannātha leaves the altar to meet people where they are, bestowing His mercy on all. This June and July, our East London Bhakti Vriksha congregation brought this divine celebration across Essex—uplifting local communities through ecstatic kīrtana, book distribution, prasādam, and warm spiritual connection.
Chelmsford Ratha Yatra
On Sunday, 14 June 2026, over 1,200 attendees gathered for the second annual Chelmsford Ratha Yatra—marking a historic first as the sacred chariot processed along Chelmsford High Street!
The festivities began with a traditional coconut breaking ceremony led by the Mayor of Chelmsford and MP Marie Goldman. Devotees and local residents danced through the streets to vibrant kīrtana, followed by stage performances, henna, mantra meditation, and Vedic book distribution.
In the spirit of harmony, free prasādam meals and refreshing Nannari juice were served to 1,200 visitors, leaving the city united in joy and gratitude.
Southend Ratha Yatra
On Sunday, 12 July 2026, over 1,200 attendees gathered for the 3rd Southend Ratha Yatra. The procession launched from Victoria Circus with ceremonial coconut breaking and road sweeping by MP David Burton-Sampson, ISKCON London Temple President HG Dayal Mora Dasa, HG Parasuram Dasa, and HG Tribhangananda Dasa.
Devotees danced down to Royal Square, where High Street transformed into a vibrant cultural hub featuring face painting, book stalls, kīrtana yoga, and magic shows. Thanks to support from Southend Council and weeks of preparation, the community served 1,200 plates of free prasādam to local visitors.
Colchester Ratha Yatra
The third Colchester Ratha Yatra processed through town as part of the Colchester Carnival. Thousands lined the route from Sir Isaac's Walk to Lower Castle Park to witness the magnificent chariot brought by HG Tribhangananda Prabhu.
The festivities featured vibrant kīrtana, traditional dance, and a stage drama by Colchester Bhakti Vriksha devotees. Youth volunteers successfully ran a drinks stall, nearly 300 prasādam meals were distributed, and many local visitors expressed keen interest in joining regular classes.