The NZ Odia Society recently held Rath Yatra celebrations in Auckland and Wellington, uniting the Odia community and their friends from across New Zealand. These events not only showcased a significant cultural festivity but also drew in onlookers, creating a captivating spiritual and festive
On July 7, 2024, the NZ Odia Society celebrated Rath Yatra at the Western Springs Garden Community Hall in Auckland, aligning with the festival in Puri, Odisha, home to the world-renowned Jagannath Temple. Professors Akshay Swain and Partha Roop warmly welcomed guests, and the festivities began with a spiritual chant of 108 names of Lord Jagannath, followed by Arati and Pushpanjali. Attendees immersed themselves in devotional rhythms, fostering a deep sense of community through collective worship.
Devotees at Ratha Yatra 2024 celebration in Auckland/Photo: Supplied
Nilanchal Mishra, President of the NZ Odia Society, addressed the gathering, expressing hopes that the day would inspire pride and strengthen community bonds. Vice President Kabyashree Swain coordinated the puja and decorations, with significant contributions from Manoj Singh and Manas Mahesh Das, who created the event's centrepiece—the Rath (Chariot). The evening featured a special performance by renowned violinist Dr. Chintamani Rath, with the program hosted by Utpal Mishra and Samiksha Patnaik. Participants from various regions of New Zealand, including the Bay of Plenty and Canterbury, joined in the celebrations.
Though the Hon Consul of India, Shri Bhav Dhilon, was not in town, his congratulatory message was read to the audience. Shri Jeet Suchdev, Chairman of the Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust, graced the occasion, offering prayers to Lord Jagannath for continued peace, happiness, and prosperity for everyone.
Idols of Lord Jagannath with his elder brother - Balabhadra, and their sister- Subhadra at celebration in Auckland/Photo: Supplied
The cultural program, organised by Sairam Behera with support from Arupananda Das and Balaram Panda, featured devotional songs, instrumental performances, and classical Indian dances like Odissi, Kathak, and Bharat Natyam. Contributors to the event's success included Avishek Mishra, Chandan Kumar Sahoo, Ranjan Kumar Padhi, Saswat Mohanty, Basant Behera, Siddhartha Mohapatra, Subhendu Sharma, and Partha Patra. The event culminated with the distribution of Mahaprasad (offering).
On July 14, 2024, the NZ Odia Society brought Rath Yatra festivities to Wellington for the first time at the Linden Community Centre. Guests from the High Commission of India, Mr. Manoj Kumar Sahu and Mr. Durga Dass, enhanced the event with their heartfelt speeches. The cultural program began with mesmerizing Odissi dance performances, followed by soulful bhajans and mantras that filled the air with spiritual zeal.
Devotees celebrating the divine journey of Lord Jagannath during Rath Yatra 2024 in Wellington/Photo: Supplied
A Ratha Yatra-themed quiz, storytelling, and informational talks by children added to the festivities. The children also showcased their creativity and connection to their heritage through displays of Lord Jagannath-themed art. The event concluded with the soulful Odia song "Ahe Daya Maya Biswa Bihari," resonating with the devotion of the attendees.
Decorative art forms of Lord Jagannath in Wellington/Photo: Supplied
Both the Auckland and Wellington events were streamed live, allowing Odiyas across the globe, particularly in New Zealand, Australia, and India, to view and participate in the celebrations. These grand celebrations demonstrated the spiritual power of Lord Jagannath and the rich heritage of the Odia community in New Zealand, promoting cultural inclusivity and exchange with all communities in Aotearoa. The dual celebrations of Rath Yatra in Auckland and Wellington served as a testament to the resilience and unity of the vibrant Odia community.
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