Kolkata, June 20: National flags of about 100 countries would be hoisted to symbolise international amity in times of strife preceding the annual Lord Jagannath rathyatra to be organised by ISKCON. National colours of all countries, where the Hare Krishna movement has its presence, would be part of the unique flag parade before the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra roll out, ISKCON temple secretary Sudipto Mukherjee told a press meet today.

"At a time when strife and tension are ripping apart the world, we wanted to demonstrate the unique reach, unity and integrity of our organisation in this way," Mukherjee said.

A colourful procession of floats depicting the life and pastimes of Lord Krishna and Shri Chaitanya would be set off by RPG group chairman Sanjiv Goenka, as he sweeps the road in front of the chariots to the accompaniment of the signature Hare Krishna chants by ISKCON monks.

A rathyatra complex, specially erected in the heart of the city with a mammoth yagna pandal, prayer hall and air-conditioned auditorium for seminars and meetings, would house the three chariots for seven days till their return journey to the temple, Mukherjee said.

Stalls for distribution of free prasad, a museum depicting lives of spiritual masters and a daily 'shanti yagna' for global peace and prosperity would be the other highlights of the gala event, he said.

Bureau Report