Rathayatra 2002
Delayed somewhat by Bristol's eternal traffic jams, Bristol's second rathayatra
festival continued the tradition of its first, with rain, and devotees respecting
some fabulous prasadam before the procession even began.
The Food for All rath van was parked at the side of the zoo, and while Parasuram
erected the cart, monkeys were screeching loudly, obviously smelling the prasadam.
Hopefully even the smell of it will give them a human body in their next life.
 We
start off along the downs, thoughtfully pausing at bus stops to let the
half-mile tailback of cars pass every so often.
Gandarvaka and Minaketana direct the overtaking traffic.
The narrow roads do not allow Garuda's wings to be fully extended. This gives
the impression that Lord Jagannatha is saluting.
You can click on these pictures to see them full size - but be warned
- they are 4-500 Kb each.
The enthusiastic group of non-pulling kirtaneers has stretched out a bit as we
turn the corner at Blackboy hill.
They're really getting into the swing of things passing Clifton
Downs station.
This is West Park, where we hold our monthly Clifton meetings.
The University
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare
The old Hare Krishna temple which we used to rent, now, sadly
unoccupied.
 Passing
the Bristol Royal Infimary
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare
Through Broadmead, the main shopping centre
... and eventually, after a very long procession, here we are at the Bristol
Hindu temple. Hare Krishna!
The evening continued with more bhajans as we took darshan of
Sri Radharani, Krishna, seen here with Kamlesh Vyas, Panditji in a shaft of sunlight,
Siva, Parvati, and (out of picture) Sita, Rama, Laxman and Hanuman. The rath pilgrims
then took a great feast of prasadam with around 200 indian visitors to the temple,
who had come for a special bhajan concert.
Jaya Jagannatha!
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