Festival of Chariots a life highlight
THRONGS of Hare Krishna devotees and curious visitors of all races and religions attended the Festival of Chariots at the old Durban drive-in site, where there was prayer, meditation and cultural activities.
Among the devotees was a contingent of youth dressed in colourful religious garb, including Preaska Reddy and her friend McKayla Carstens.
Reddy, 24, of Clare Estate, said she had attended each festival since childhood.
“It has been one of the highlights of my life since I was a child. It transports me to a different world where people are always happy. When I first started attending, I was attracted to the musical aspect of the festival, which always lifted my spirits.
“It is a colour infusion, not
Ramayan: Game of Life, just in dress and apparel but also in race, which shows the unity this festival brings.
“What I find intriguing is that all the activities that go on at the festival are based on spiritual beliefs, which inspired me to learn more about the Krishna consciousness philosophy. Every year my experience gets better.”
Carstens, 22, of Stellenbosch, a fine arts student, said: “This is my first time at the festival. I almost didn’t think I would get to it, but thanks to a friend who said I had to attend, here I am.
“When the devotees speak about the festival, their faces light up and the atmosphere is filled with joy.
“This is the biggest Festival of Chariots outside of India and if the attendants from last year still glow in remembrance of their experience, it must be very special.”