The highlight of the event was a flower-decorated chariot carrying the deities, while devotees enthusiastically pulled the ropes amid continuous chanting of “Hare Krishna Hare Rama” and the sounds of traditional drums, cymbals and devotional music.

The procession began near Brihaspati Bazaar at around 4 pm after priests performed special rituals and prayers. Following the ceremonial worship, the deities were placed on the chariot and devotees raised slogans of “Jai Jagannath” before commencing the journey.

The Rath Yatra travelled through several prominent parts of the city, including Sadar Bazaar, Gol Bazaar, Telipara, Purana Bus Stand Chowk, Agrasen Chowk, Satyam Chowk and Konher Garden before returning to Brihaspati Bazaar late in the evening.

The nearly five-kilometre procession continued for around six hours and witnessed participation from hundreds of devotees, many of whom walked alongside the chariot throughout the route. Groups performing kirtan accompanied the procession, creating a vibrant spiritual atmosphere that drew the attention of residents and shopkeepers along the way.

Devotees danced to devotional songs while chanting the Hare Krishna Mahamantra, transforming the city streets into a festive spiritual gathering. Children, elderly citizens and families were also seen participating in large numbers.

The procession received a warm welcome at several locations across Bilaspur. Community organisations, local residents and traders arranged refreshment counters and devotional offerings for participants.

At Sadar Bazaar, volunteers distributed drinking water and cold beverages to devotees. In Telipara, prasad and boondi were offered, while similar arrangements were made at Purana Bus Stand Road, Agrasen Chowk and other points along the route.

One of the most visually striking moments came when the procession reached the flower market area. Traders showered flower petals on the chariot and devotees as a mark of reverence and sought blessings from Lord Jagannath and the accompanying deities.

Fireworks were also organised at select locations during the procession, adding to the festive mood.

After the Rath Yatra concluded, the deities were welcomed back at the temple premises where a special offering of 56 Bhog (Chhappan Bhog) was presented to Lord Jagannath. The elaborate offering consisted of a variety of traditional food preparations prepared as part of the religious celebrations.

Following the rituals, Mahaprasad was distributed among devotees who had gathered at the temple after the procession.

According to ISKCON members, Rath Yatras organised by ISKCON temples are generally held a few days after the famous Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri. This year's Bilaspur procession was originally scheduled for July 18 but had to be postponed due to heavy rainfall in the region.

The rescheduled event ultimately witnessed a strong turnout, reflecting the growing popularity of the annual festival among devotees in the city.

Religious leaders associated with the temple said the Rath Yatra symbolises Lord Jagannath’s journey among devotees and serves as an opportunity for people from all backgrounds to participate in collective devotion and spiritual celebration.

The successful completion of the procession, coupled with enthusiastic public participation and community support, made this year’s Rath Yatra one of the prominent religious events in Bilaspur’s festive calendar.