Subcontinent's largest 'Rath Yatra' festival kicks off Friday in Dhamrai

The 450-year-old traditional 'Rath Yatra' of Sri Sri Jashomadhav Dev, widely regarded as the largest wooden chariot festival in the Indian subcontinent, is set to begin in Dhamrai, on the outskirts of Dhaka, on Friday (June 27).

According to organisers and local authorities, thousands of devotees and visitors from across the country and abroad have already begun gathering in the upazila ahead of the opening ceremony. While the nine-day main religious festival will conclude on July 5 with the return of the chariot, the accompanying traditional Rath Mela is expected to continue throughout the month.

More than 200 stalls have been set up around the fairgrounds, offering food, crafts, and entertainment. Popular attractions include the traditional Nagar Dola (giant wheel), circus shows, puppet dances, and raffle-style lucky coupons for visitors.

According to local historians, the Rath Yatra in Dhamrai was first introduced in Bengali year 1079 by the zamindars of Baliati using a bamboo chariot. A few years later, a 67-foot wooden chariot was constructed and elaborately decorated with traditional craftsmanship. Following the abolition of the zamindari system, Mirzapur-based philanthropist Ranada Prasad Saha sponsored the event until 1971. The original chariot was destroyed during the Liberation War by Pakistani forces. After the war, a new chariot was built by local devotees, and in 2010, the current 37-foot-high and 25-foot-wide wooden chariot was constructed with assistance from India.

Ahead of this year’s festival, the massive chariot has been freshly painted and restored by artisans. Dhamrai is now filled with devotees, visitors, and family members returning home to take part in what has become a nationally significant cultural event.

Nanda Gopal Sen, joint general secretary of the Sri Sri Jashomadhav Temple and Rath Festival Management Committee, said the event has transcended its religious roots and become a universal celebration. He said all preparations are complete and expressed confidence that the festival will be a success.

Ahead of this biggest festival, law enforcement has taken extensive measures to ensure public safety.

Monirul Islam, officer-in-charge (OC) of Dhamrai Police Station, said, "Both police and members of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) will be deployed in key areas, with additional detective surveillance in place to prevent any disorder."

Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Mamnun Ahmed Anik said, "The administration is coordinating with police and other agencies to ensure a peaceful and festive atmosphere."