The nine-day-long Sri Sri Jagannath Dev Rath Yatra festival concluded in Hobiganj on Friday with the traditional Ulto Rath (return chariot procession), amid a spiritually vibrant atmosphere marked by devotional songs, Harinam Sankirtan, and religious festivities.

Organised by the Sri Sri Nrsingha Jiu Temple under the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), the event drew thousands of devotees, Hindu worshippers, and visitors from different parts of the district, turning the temple premises and surrounding areas into a hub of religious celebration.

In the afternoon, beautifully decorated chariots carrying the deities Lord Jagannath, Balaram, and Subhadra were taken out in a colourful procession. Accompanied by the sounds of drums, cymbals, conch shells, and continuous chanting of the holy names, devotees enthusiastically pulled the chariot ropes while offering prayers for peace and blessings. The procession paraded through major roads of the town before returning to the Sri Sri Nrsingha Jiu Temple.

Addressing a discussion meeting held on the occasion,  Whip and Member of Parliament for Habiganj-3 constituency, Alhaj G.K. Gaus, said religious festivals play an important role in strengthening harmony, mutual respect, and social cohesion among people.

Describing Bangladesh as a shining example of communal harmony, he said people of all faiths are able to observe their religious practices peacefully, contributing to the country’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.

He further noted that humanity, morality, and compassion form the core teachings of all religions, and emphasised the need for collective efforts to build a peaceful, just, and welfare-oriented society through the practice of religious and ethical values.

Special guests at the event highlighted the significance of the Rath Yatra festival and offered prayers for world peace, human welfare, and the continued prosperity of the nation.

Temple president Sripad Uday Gaur Das Brahmachari said the Rath Yatra and Ulto Rath symbolise devotion, divine love, and spiritual surrender, inspiring people towards greater God consciousness and humanitarian values.

Throughout the nine-day festival, devotees participated in daily Mangala Arati, recitations from the Srimad Bhagavatam, religious discussions, Harinam Sankirtan, devotional cultural programmes, Rajbhog offerings, and the distribution of Mahaprasad.

Although the formal celebrations concluded with Friday’s Ulto Rath procession, organisers said the spiritual joy and devotional spirit of the festival would continue to resonate among devotees long after its conclusion.