Palkhi Yatra, Paris, France
More than 2,500 participants, led by women and girls of all ages, took part in the Palkhi Yatra, featuring 9 ceremonial palkhis, 1 traditional rath and around 250 performers.
The streets of Bussy-Saint-Georges came alive with colour, music and celebration on 2 September 2026 as more than 2,500 participants gathered for the Palkhi Yatra, an inspiring highlight of the Festival of Culture marking the ceremonial opening of the Paris Mandir Mahotsav.
Led by women and girls of all ages, the joyful procession celebrated faith, culture and community while welcoming families, local residents and visitors from around the world.
Nine beautifully decorated palkhis, a traditional rath and around 250 performers made their way through the town, accompanied by traditional music, devotional singing and dance. The procession showcased the rich cultural diversity of India through colourful performances, traditional attire and creative displays inspired by different regions of the country.
The Yatra also highlighted the vital role of women in nurturing and transmitting culture, values and traditions across generations. Along the route, spectators gathered to watch and enjoy the festivities, creating a warm atmosphere throughout the procession.
The procession culminated in a vibrant cultural performance before continuing to the new Hindu Mandir on the Esplanade des Religions et des Cultures. Ruchi Mehta from Berlin, Germany, who participated in the procession, reflected on seeing women and girls from different generations and countries celebrating together, describing the experience as one filled with encouragement, joy and belonging.
Valérie Pécresse, President of the Île-de-France region, and Ms Eenam Gambhir, Deputy Chief of Mission from the Embassy of India in France, also attended the opening ceremony and shared their appreciation for the historic mandir and its significance in bringing people together.