Patna: The ISKCON temple in Patna has begun a three-day celebration to mark its third foundation day, drawing a large gathering of devotees immersed in the devotion of Shri Shri Radha-Banke Bihari. The festivities, which started on Sunday, will conclude on Akshaya Tritiya.
Speaking to the media, ISKCON Patna spokesperson Nand Gopal Das said the highlight of the celebration will be the Kirtan Mela, featuring a special group from Shri Dham Mayapur. Devotee musicians and Sankirtan groups from across India and abroad are performing Hari Naam Sankirtan continuously, creating a deeply devotional atmosphere.
Krishna Kripa Das, president of ISKCON Patna, said that over the course of the three days, there will be regular worship and aarti ceremonies. On Akshaya Tritiya, a special aarti will be performed along with the offering of fifty-six traditional dishes to the deity. A grand Mahabhishek of Ram Darbar, Krishna Darbar and Mahaprabhu will also take place, involving 108 kalash (sacred pots) filled with milk, curd, ghee, honey and other offerings, using both silver and clay vessels.
The celebrations include elaborate decorations for the deities, with special garments brought from Vrindavan and flowers imported from Thailand and Bangkok adorning the temple and the deity pavilion. Artists from Bengal have crafted the floral arrangements for the occasion.
On the final day, devotees will be offered Mahaprasad, including traditional dishes such as puri, kheer, sabzi, rice and dal.
