Dublin Ratha Yatra Schedule
10:45 – Gathering at take-off point from Parnell Square
11:00 – Opening ceremony with Lord Mayor and religious/cultural representatives
12:00 – Parade arrives to Merrion Square Park
14:00 – Festival continues at Merrion Square Park
17:00 – Festival celebrations start to pack up.
Our guest-list for the day will include a representative from the Indian Embassy, the Lord Mayor of Dublin, representatives from the Equality Authority of Ireland and guests from the Garda Racial and Intercultural office as well as many respected priests and monks from around the world.
Above: the Lord Mayor of Dublin Councillor Gerry Breen is introduced to the festival goers at the 2010 Dublin Ratha Yatra. Prior to addressing the audience the Lord Mayor inaugurated the festival in the traditional way that dates back thousands of years to the holy town of Jagannatha Puri in Orissa, eastern India.
After breaking coconuts in front of the Rath cart the Lord Mayor then swept the road before the Lord’s cart began its journey through the centre of city. The sweeping of the road by the first citizen of the city is a symbolic gesture indicating the relationship of service between all citizens and Lord Jagannatha.
Music – Contemporary and classical spiritual songs, in both Eastern and Western styles
Philosophy – Guest speakers and local teachers talk about the basics of Krishna Consciousness
Dance & Vocal performance – Songs of devotion and other demonstrations of Indian culture
Exhibits – Spiritually-oriented arts, crafts, and literature
Free Vegetarian Feast – Share in our prasadam (spiritually prepared and delivered food)