Rathyatra at Swaminarayan Vidyapith
1 July 2003, Karamsad, Gujarat, India

Every year in July, the Swaminarayan Vidyapith residents get together to celebrate the Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, one of the biggest festivals during the monsoon season. According to the Indian solar calendar, it falls two days after the new moon day of the month of Asadh.

Amidst the resounding clash of cymbals, and the tumultuous thundering of drums, the girls at Swaminarayan Vidyapith recited and rejoiced as they paraded their elaborate chariots through the school campus In Karamsad. Garba and the Kirtan added life to the yatra, Prayers were held by the Directors for Akshar Purushottam Maharaj, Bhagatji Maharaj, Shastriji Maharaj, Yogiji Maharaj and also H. D. H. Pramukh Swami Maharaj, thereafter, prasad was distributed amongst the girls.

Most auspicious occasions, special ceremonies and rituals are performed replete with pomp and splendor in the grounds of the Vidyapith.

Atmanam Rathinam viddhi (soul becomes the voyager)
Shariram ratham eva tu (and body the chariot)
Buddhim tu sarathim viddhi (wisdom becomes the pilot)
Manah prgraham eva cha (and will the strategist)