On Sunday, July 14^th, 2013, the Hindu Temple of Arizona and its sister organization, Oriya Association of Arizona, partnered together to celebrate the 10^th anniversary of Rath Yatra festival.

Each year, hundreds of devotees and volunteers in Arizona pull a single handcrafted chariot that carries the three gods – Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabadra, and Goddess Subhadra- onto the streets around the neighborhood of the Hindu Temple of Arizona in the sweltering heat to show their devotion.

This year, more excitement for the event was generated by the construction of a new Rath (chariot) by the temple volunteers, who spent countless hours drilling, hammering, and creating a memorable vehicle. The intricate weaving of the fabric covers, and the color shades and patterns made the chariot truly magnificent.

After completion of the Haavan, Jagannath Puja, Pahandi Bijaya and Chera Pahunra at the temple’s premises, the Rath procession started around 9:45 AM and returned back to the Temple around 11:00 AM. This was followed by a Cultural Program, Puja and Maha Aarti.

This annual event was only made possible by the volunteers and devotees, which ensured another milestone in the long history of the HTA. With the celebration of this festival, the Hindu Temple of Arizona continues in its tradition to educate the public on the rich Hindu heritage that has made a niche in the greater Phoenix area of Arizona.

For further details visit temple website at www.hindutempleaz.org.

Source: Valley India Times