Hindu celebration stresses unity

Almost 150 members of the Oriya community gathered at the Austin Hindu Temple on Sunday to celebrate the Festival of Chariots, an observance of Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra.

Jagannath serves as the presiding deity of the state of Orissa on the East Coast of India, and symbolizes universal brotherhood, equality and inclusiveness, according to Hindu beliefs.

Although the festival is thousands of years old, this is the third year it has been celebrated in Austin. For Hindus and the temple’s congregation, the rich tradition serves as both a religious commemoration and social event. DK Ray, Austin Hindu Temple member, said that the festival celebrates Hindu culture and unites the community.

“This event means a lot for me, especially because it’s less religious and more social,” Ray said. “It’s a reason to bring people together.”

The decorations that filled the temple and the intricately adorned chariot were created by members of the Oriva community.
 

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