On December 9th, ISKCON devotees joined representatives from other faiths (Buddhist, Christian, Muslim, Sikh, and Hindu) at the annual interfaith gathering held at the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya, Thailand. They offered kirtan for the thousands in attendance and provided prasadam and Srila Prabhupada’s books in booths at the event.

The annual interfaith gathering honoring Thailand’s King was held on the day before the Pattaya Ratha Yatra. Pattaya, a popular coastal city in Thailand, is known for its picturesque beaches and diverse culture. The iconic Sanctuary of Truth, where devotees gathered with members of other faiths, is a stunning, intricately carved wooden temple that stands as a testament to traditional Thai craftsmanship.

Pattaya’s Temple President Dharmaraja Dasa, a disciple of Bhakti Vighna Vinasa Narasimha Swami, established the ISKCON temple in the city of Pattaya, sometimes called “Sin City” because of its nightlife. Under his leadership, devotees have brought the light of Lord Chaitanya’s message there, and Lord Jagannatha blesses the city during the annual Chariot Festival. Dharmaraja invited his 33 Chinese godbrothers and sisters and about 100 devotees from Thailand, Russia, Israel, Japan, and the U.S. to attend the event. 

Devotees were especially delighted to be joined by B.V.V. Narasimha Swami and Kavicandra Swami for this ecstatic and extremely successful gathering where attendees heard and chanted the Maha Mantra. 

Madhurika Devi Dasi from Los Angeles, along with other devotees, offered kirtan, and there was also an abhisheka, during which Nitai Priya from Dubai led devotees in the chanting of the Holy Name. “The owner of the sanctuary bathed the Deity of Krishna, and his daughters, who were dressed in saris, danced ecstatically with the devotees,” said Madhurkika.

On December 10th, thousands of Pattaya residents and visiting tourists witnessed a glorious Ratha Yatra procession through the city.  To see photos from the festival and to follow the inspiring service of the devotees in ISKCON Pattaya, you can visit their Facebook page.

Photos courtesy Sanctuary of Truth, Bhagavatkrpa Das, and ISKCON Pattaya Facebook page.