THUNDER BAY - Sights, sounds and flavours were the main attractions at this year’s Festival of India.
Rich in culture the Festival of India showcased another thousand-year-old tradition Sunday evening as dozens pulled a mechanical chariot around the festival area while they danced and sang.
“The Chariot Parade represents the universal love and brotherhood,” said organizer Prashant Jani.
“When people pull the chariot toward them that means we are pulling love and brotherhood towards us.”
We are all one is the theme of the Festival of India. Jani said we are spirit by nature, we love each other, we respect each other, serve each other and that’s the whole purpose of the human life.
“It’s just like your shirt is different, my shirt is different, but we are all human,” he added. “Similarly your body is different, my body is different, but we are all spiritual souls.”
In addition to the parade, people had the opportunity to learn about the life, culture and philosophy of India through a variety of different exhibits.
Some of the exhibits set up around the festival discussed reincarnation, karma, and vegetarianism.
From 5 to 8 p.m. the festival provided a free East Indian dinner for everyone at the event.
“We have adjusted the spices so the food doesn’t lose its flavour but so it’s not too hot,” he said.
More than 3,000 people took to the Marina Saturday for the Festival of Colours, and organizer said they were expecting more than that for day two.
“The idea of the whole festival is to bring the community together,” Jani said.
