Imphal: Thousands of devotees packed the historic Shree Shree Govindaji Temple in Imphal to mark Rath Yatra. Locally known as Kang or Kangchingba, the event brought massive crowds into the streets. This festival stands as a pillar of the Meitei community’s commitment to Vaishnavism. It honors the annual chariot procession of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra.
The celebration stretched far beyond the temple gates. Temples and neighborhoods across the state joined the movement. The main event featured the ceremonial pulling of a massive wooden chariot. The deities traveled through the temple grounds and surrounding roads while followers chanted hymns. Sankirtana artists led the rhythmic singing that filled the air.
Dressing for the occasion, participants wore traditional Manipuri attire. Many sported elegant Innaphi and intricate jewelry to highlight the region’s cultural history. The events pushed into the evening hours. Performers staged a Choitep Chongba, a traditional devotional dance held directly before the deities. Organizers concluded the night with congregational prayers and the distribution of Khechri as prasadam. Experts note that "Kang holds immense religious and cultural significance in Manipur and remains one of the state's most cherished festivals, symbolising devotion, community participation, and the enduring legacy of Vaishnavite traditions."
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