20, Jul 2015

“I along with family members celebrated Eid festival on Saturday. Later in the day, I went to the grand road to watch the car festival. Every year, we never miss the car festival,” quipped Ali.
Kendrapara Updated: Jul 20, 2015, 13:29
For 67-year-old Shaukat Ali, it has become customary to catch a glimpse of the triad of deities- Jagannath, Balabhadra and sister Subhadra- as they emerge out of their temple abode every year. Ali says he is an ardent participant in the annual festivities because of tradition and mutual respect.
“I along with family members celebrated Eid festival on Saturday. Later in the day, I went to the grand road to watch the car festival. Every year, we never miss the car festival,” quipped Ali.
“When I was a teenager, I first witnessed the event. Since then, it has become an annual ritual for my family. Hindus appreciate our participation in the festival. The trend has passed on to the next generation. Now my grand children watch the pulling of chariot every year,” remarked Ali.
Like him, many from the Muslim community play a part in chariot festival with melting of religious barrier. As the chariot slowly makes its way through the streets, the grand event continues to evoke enthusiasm among Muslims.