Celebrating Rath Yatra with the BAPS Community in the City of Whittlesea.
- Martin John Taylor
- Jun 23
- 2 min read
Yesterday, I had the immense honour and privilege, as Mayor of the City of Whittlesea, to celebrate with the vibrant Hindu community of BAPS as part of the worldwide observance of the Rath Yatra festival.
Rath Yatra is a spectacular celebration of spiritual devotion, cultural heritage, and community unity. The streets came alive with colour, as traditional chariots were pulled in a joyful procession marked by dancing, drumming, singing, and the powerful expression of shared faith and cultural pride. It was a true celebration of cultural diversity, spiritual wellbeing, and inclusive community connection in the City of Whittlesea.
I was deeply honoured to meet and talk with and later commence the festival alongside Cr Deb Gunn, the Hon Enver Erdogan MP, Member for Northern Metropolitan Region, Minister for Youth Justice, Minister for Corrections, and Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, and Iwan Walters MP, the Member for Greenvale.
The energy and joy of the celebration were infectious. The festival lasted for several hours and drew large crowds, with many local residents stepping out of their homes to cheer and greet the procession as it passed through their neighbourhoods. It was a privilege to walk alongside the BAPS community and to engage with so many locals and those celebrating as we walked, each conversation reinforcing the spirit of unity and mutual respect that defines our city.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to the BAPS community for your dedication, detailed preparation, and the respectful and collaborative way in which they worked with the officers of the City of Whittlesea to make this event happen. Your efforts ensured this was not only a successful event, but a meaningful and memorable one that truly reflects the best of who we are as a multicultural and inclusive city.
It was a celebration I will not forget. Thank You.
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