𝗝𝗢𝗬𝗙𝗨𝗟 𝗝𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗡𝗘𝗬: Krishna Devotees Bring Smiles, Fans, and Chanting to Chariot Parade

 

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — On Sunday, August 3, 2025, the 49th Annual Festival of the Chariots, organized by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), transformed Main Street into a jubilant procession route as devotees hand‑pulled three ornately decorated chariots—each reaching approximately 40 feet in height—in a vibrant display of spiritual celebration. The annual parade began at the Santa Monica Civic Center, where a sea of participants gathered to chant the Vaishnava Mahā‑mantra—“Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare / Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare”—while dancing and singing to the rhythm of traditional Indian instruments. The chariots, representing deities Jagannatha, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, glided south along Main Street, drawing crowds who lined the route to witness the spectacle. Upon arriving at Windward Plaza in Venice Beach, the celebration expanded into a full cultural and spiritual festival. Live kirtan filled the air as classical Indian dancers performed on a central stage. Visitors were offered a free vegetarian feast, prepared as prasadam, and explored an array of exhibits, booths, and gift shops featuring devotional literature, handcrafted goods, and arts from the Indian spiritual tradition. Children participated in interactive activities while others attended workshops focused on meditation, spiritual philosophy, and chanting. The event, entirely free to the public, served as a welcoming space for cultural exchange, spiritual reflection, and community connection. Rooted in the sacred Ratha Yatra tradition of Jagannatha Puri, India—a festival with origins dating back over 5,000 years—the Los Angeles edition has been held annually since 1976, save for a brief pause during the pandemic. It remains one of the largest and most enduring Hare Krishna parades in the Western Hemisphere. The celebration continues this afternoon at Windward Plaza, where the sounds of chanting, drums, and dancing fill the air. With cultural performances, free vegetarian feasts, and spiritual exhibits still drawing crowds, the 49th Annual Festival of the Chariots remains in full swing along the Venice Beach Boardwalk.