Shree Swaminarayan Gurukul Melbourne, an integral part of the esteemed Shree Swaminarayan Gurukul Rajkot Sanshta organized the much-awaited Rath Yatra festival on 25th June 2023 turning the entire vicinity at 1596 Boundary Road, Mount Cotterell, into a pulsating hub of spirituality. The festival was attended by a congregation of over 300 excited and devout followers, including distinguished community leaders, and guests from the Indian Consulate office.
The resplendent Rath, a divine chariot adorned with impeccable craftsmanship, carried the mighty Lord Jagannath and his beloved siblings, Balabhadra and Subhadra. The revered Lord Shree Swaminarayan himself was also present in all his magnificence, embellishing the Rath with an ethereal radiance leaving everyone in awe.
But the highlight of the festival was something special for the little champions – the Kids Rath. A procession of delightful kids, with their eyes gleaming with joy, merrily pulling the splendidly decked chariot – was a spectacle which they will remember until next time they see something so uniquely special.
“Their innocent laughter and infectious enthusiasm filled the air, adding an element of pure delight to the already electrifying atmosphere,” a devotee commenting while talking to Bharat Times.
As the vibrant Rathyatra commenced, the surroundings reverberated with the soul-stirring chants of Kirtans, interwoven with the mellifluous names of Lord Shree Swaminarayan and Jagannath. The divine melodies united the hearts and souls of all present, transforming the entire space into a sanctuary of boundless positivity and spiritual ecstasy.
In addition to the Rathyatra, this grand celebration held an exceptional significance for the group as it marked the joyous occasion of Guru Parv, commemorating the birthdate of their beloved founder, Pujya Shree Shastri Ji Maharaj, the ‘epitome of divinity’ and the ‘beacon of wisdom’ in the modern era.
And it was particularly stimulating for the devotees to witness the presence of revered Sants like Pujya Shree Madhusudandasji Swami, Guru Shashtri, and Muktajivandas Sadhu, illuminating the Sabha with their divine wisdom and blessings.
A captivating video presentation took everyone on an enthralling journey through the rich tapestry of history, shedding light on the profound importance of Gurukuls in Indian and Hindu culture. The spellbound devotees marvelled at the invaluable heritage and traditions that lie at the core of the Gurukul community.
After the Rath yatra, the devotees were treated to an ambrosial feast of Prasad, lovingly served by the members of Shree Swaminarayan Gurukul Melbourne. The flavors burst forth, tantalizing the taste buds and satiating the soul with divine nourishment.
The group Gurukul Melbourne at 1596 Boundary Road Mount Cotterell would like to invite one and all to join them in their festivities. To reach them, visit https://www.ssga.org.au/home/menu/Gurukul-Melbourne