The Canadian chapter of the VHP has announced a grand rath yatra, which will span across 151 Hindu temples in the country, covering a remarkable distance of approximately 13,000 km. This significant journey aims to commemorate the consecration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, which took place earlier this year.
Manish Puri, the general secretary of VHP Canada, stated that the expedition would commence from Vishnu Mandir in Markham, located in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), on Monday. This remarkable journey will span across all provinces in the country, lasting for approximately two months.
The yatra is being coordinated in conjunction with the VHP division in the United States and, in its entirety, will encompass more than a thousand temples in North America. Puri stated, “This journey will provide an opportunity for all Hindus who have not had the chance to visit Ayodhya recently to experience the divine presence of Shri Ram Mandir throughout major cities and temples in North America.” He further emphasized that the objective is to promote the values of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World is One Family), which are integral to the Hindu faith, and to disseminate messages of Shri Ram Bhakti, embracing inclusion, diversity, and pluralism.
The SUV will be adorned and will include a 14-inch replica of the idol from the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Puri stated that this will allow Hindus throughout Canada to receive akshat and prasad from the Ayodhya mandir, providing them with the divine experience of the Shri Ram Mandir in various cities and temples. Akshat refers to the complete rice grain utilized in rituals, and both the akshat and prasad have already been obtained from Ayodhya in a dry form, ensuring their non-perishable nature.
There has been some criticism in the Canadian media regarding the Ram Mandir due to the controversial demolition of the Babri Masjid in 1992. Puri mentioned that much of this criticism contains “misleading” or “inaccurate” information. Despite this, the yatra’s objective is positive, and organizers are open to welcoming Canadians from all communities who are interested in participating. However, there is a perceived threat, so precautions are being implemented. Puri stated, “We are coordinating with local law enforcement, and mandirs are being asked to ensure sufficient security measures, if necessary. We are anticipating a joyous celebration that will unite people from all backgrounds.”
VHP Canada worked in conjunction with various temples nationwide in preparation for the pran pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22, organizing more than 115 festive gatherings.
