Ladies and Gentlemen:

Welcome to the Tampa Bay Ratha Yatra site, which is also referred to as the India Festival of Chariots. Ratha Yatra originated at Puri, Orissa, India and is usually celebrated for the Lord Jagannath (the Lord of the Universe). Lord Jagannath is considered the latest reincarnation of God (also called Kalki Avtar) and thus Puri is one of the four holiest places in India one must visit in one's life time to attend 'Nirvana'.

Ratha Yatra symbolizes the humanization of God. All rituals associated with the festival demonstrate an attempt to bring God down from His pedestal of glory, the temple, to a more human level in public, where devotees can behold the Lord irrespective of caste, color and creed. During Ratha Yatra, Lord Jagannath, with his brother and sister, makes a visit to the garden house. The Jagannath culture and Ratha Yatra have the unique distinction of symbolizing universal brotherhood and sisterhood and global peace and understanding, which are reflected in organizing Ratha Yatra celebration.

Tampa Bay Ratha Yatra (T.R.Y) Association is proud to organize Ratha Yatra annully in Tampa Bay since 2006. This festival is a great day to celebrate this epic Indian tradition and celebrate unity in diversity through art, culture and music.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for visiting us and being part of this tradition and contributing your efforts, time and resources for this great cause that bring peace and understanding in the world.

May Lord Jagannath Mahaprabhu shower His blessings upon you and the
members of your family.

Sincerely,

Tampa Bay Ratha Yatra Association