Brisbane’s city centre came alive from 25 to 27 April as the 10th Ratha Yatra—Festival of Chariots brought song, prayer, and a surge of community energy to the streets. Organised by ISKCON Brisbane, the festival gathered hundreds of residents from across the city for a celebration that combined sacred tradition with urban hospitality. From Darra to King George Square, people of all ages and backgrounds walked, danced, and shared meals in what has now become a fixture on the multicultural calendar.
The event opened on ANZAC Day with a spiritual seminar at the ISKCON temple, featuring reflections by HH Devamrita Swami and HG Kalasamvara Prabhu. Their talks framed the deeper meanings of the festival, which is rooted in centuries-old traditions originating in Puri, India. Brisbane’s take on the event retains its essence—devotional music, the symbolic chariot procession of Lord Jagannath, and free vegetarian meals known as prasadam—while embracing the cultural character of the city.
The chariot procession on 26 April saw an intricately decorated float move through central Brisbane, trailed by a crowd of devotees and onlookers singing and dancing. It culminated on Monday, 29 April, at King George Square, where a festive program featured artistic performances, interactive cultural activities, and spiritual exhibits. The square filled with colour, music, and the aroma of freshly prepared meals served by Hare Krishna Food for Life volunteers.
Among those present were community leaders and local MPs, including Charis Mullen, Hermann Vorster, and Senator Paul Scarr. Mullen shared a message on social media calling the event “a wonderful celebration showcasing the culture of the ancient East… full of colour, light, and happiness.” She also praised the food, a known drawcard for many locals who attend every year for the prasadam alone.
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) marked the milestone with a note of gratitude. President Dr Preethi Suraj and Vice President Abhishek Sharma highlighted the inclusive character of the festival, describing it as “a beautiful reflection of the city’s diversity and vibrancy.” They also acknowledged the volunteers behind the scenes, whose preparation and service brought warmth and sustenance to the crowds.
The festival’s ability to maintain spiritual authenticity while opening its arms to the wider community has been key to its growth over the past decade. What began as a relatively small gathering has evolved into one of Brisbane’s most anticipated cultural events, sustained by community support and a spirit of service. The participation of civic leaders and religious figures from across traditions is a marker of the festival’s reach and relevance in today’s Brisbane.
From its early days in suburban parks to chariots rolling through the CBD, the Ratha Yatra in Brisbane now represents more than just ritual—it offers a public moment of reflection, celebration, and open-heartedness. For many, it’s a chance to reconnect with cultural roots; for others, it’s a first encounter with devotional music, vegetarian cuisine, or Eastern philosophy.
The 2025 edition held particular weight, not just as an anniversary but as a reminder that community rituals—however ancient in origin—can find new meaning when rooted in shared civic space. Ten years on, Brisbane’s chariots still move with purpose and joy, inviting the city along for the ride.
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🛐#Brisbane’s 10th #RathaYatra drew hundreds with vibrant chariot processions, devotional music & free vegetarian feasts. 🎉 Local MPs & community leaders celebrated the multicultural event’s growth & inclusivity over the past decade. #TheIndianSun
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