Kang adds native touch to Rath Yatra
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 27 2025: As in other parts of the country, the vibrant festival of Rath Yatra locally known as Kang, one of the most significant celebrations for the Meitei Vaishnavite community was observed with religious fervour today at the historic Shree Govindajee Temple at Palace Compound, Imphal.

Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla visited the Shree Shree Govindajee Temple where he offered prayers for peace, prosperity, and the well-being of Manipur's people.

He also extended his greetings to the people on this auspicious occasion.

The festival, inspired by the Jagannath Rath Yatra of Puri, Odisha, commemorates the day when the deities Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra were enshrined in the Jagannath Temple.

While the essence of the festival remains the same, Manipur's unique cultural touch adds distinct local flavors to the celebrations.

The festivities began with devotees gathering in large number at the Shree Govindajee Temple and near the Rath, adorned with flowers and lights.

The Rath was then pulled by devotees in a grand procession amidst chanting of devotional songs.

A large number of devotees participated in pulling the traditional chariot, known locally as "Kang," and offered seasonal fruits, flowers, sweets, and prayers at various stops along the Rath Yatra procession route.

The festival was also celebrated at other significant religious sites such as International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), Ghari.

The ISKCON chariot procession reached as far as Kwakeithel before returning to its temple base with adequate security measures in place.

Alongside the main celebrations, Kang Chingba - a key ritual of the festival was observed at numerous leikais across Manipur by offerings fruits and sweets to the passing chariots.

Rituals, prayers, and community feasts are part of the 10 day festival.

Comment