The nearly 200-year-old traditional Sri Sri Manikya Madhab Rath Yatra and the 20-day-long Rath Fair, introduced by the Bhawal Rajas, began in Gazipur on Thursday (July 16). The annual festival was formally inaugurated at the historic Rathkhola grounds in the district town with religious rituals, worship, and the ceremonial pulling of the chariot by thousands of devotees.
As in previous years, the entire Rathkhola area came alive with a festive atmosphere. The sounds of uludhwani, conch shells, kirtan, and the chanting of the holy names of Lord Hari created a spiritually vibrant environment throughout the venue.
A discussion meeting was held on the occasion, where former President of the Gazipur District Bar Association Advocate Md. Shahiduzzaman, former councillor Hasan Azmal Bhuiyan, and BNP leader Ahmad Ali Rushdi addressed the gathering.
Following the discussion, thousands of Hindu devotees ceremonially pulled the traditional chariot with deep devotion, reverence, and religious solemnity, marking the official beginning of the Rath Yatra.
Earlier, the deity Sri Sri Manikya Madhab was ceremonially placed on the chariot after being carried in a traditional palanquin. According to local belief, the Rath Yatra symbolizes the deity’s journey from His own residence to His in-laws’ home. After 20 days, the return journey, known as the Ulto Rath Yatra (Return Chariot Festival), will bring the deity back to His temple, marking the conclusion of the religious celebration.
A colourful Rath Fair has also been organized at the Rathkhola grounds to mark the occasion. The fair features over a hundred stalls selling toys, sweets, household items, handicrafts, and various consumer goods. Amusement rides, including a Ferris wheel, have been arranged for children and young visitors. People of all ages have been visiting the fair since morning. Besides Hindu devotees, visitors from other faiths are also enjoying the festivities.
According to local residents, the Bhawal Rajas introduced the Sri Sri Manikya Madhab Rath Yatra and Rath Fair nearly two centuries ago. Since then, the event has remained one of Gazipur’s oldest religious and cultural traditions. Every year, thousands of devotees and visitors from different parts of the country participate in the Rath Yatra and the fair, celebrating this cherished heritage.