Unlike the traditional Ratha Yatha (Festival of Chariots) sites in India, there is but one chariot in the Jacksonville and Daytona Beaches parades, and the “millions” of celebrants number but a few hundred. But their sincerity matches that of their counterparts in India. The local parades take place in the North
Florida dog days, with punishing heat and humidity
to bring the feel of India as well. They are hearty
souls, these Krishnas, generous of spirit and devoted
to Lord Jagannatha, Lord of the Universe. As the
chariot is pulled by hundreds along the beach, with
whitewater rushing across bare feet, beach goers are
invited into the Hare Krishnas circle of dance. Cymbals clap, drums beat. Dancing is bliss.