MEA Calls Incident ‘Regrettable and Against Festival Spirit’; Video of ISKCON Devotee Facing Hate During Toronto Procession Goes Viral
New Delhi/Toronto, July 14: India has strongly raised concerns with the Canadian government after a video emerged showing eggs being hurled at a Rath Yatra procession in Toronto, Canada. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal denounced the incident as “regrettable” and “against the spirit of the festival,” emphasizing that such actions undermine the principles of unity and inclusivity the event stands for.
“We have seen reports regarding disruption created by mischievous elements during the Rath Yatra procession in Toronto. Such despicable acts are regrettable and are against the spirit of festival, which seeks to promote unity, inclusivity, and social harmony,” Jaiswal said in an official statement.
He further added, “We have strongly taken up the matter with Canadian authorities to hold the perpetrators of the act accountable. We hope the Canadian Government will take necessary action to protect the religious rights of people.”
The Viral Video
The controversy erupted after a video posted on Instagram by user Sangna Bajaj showed broken eggs on the streets during the ISKCON Rath Yatra in Toronto. In the footage, Bajaj—seen singing and chanting devotional songs during the spiritual procession—narrated that as the Yatra moved through a quieter neighborhood, eggs were thrown from a nearby building.
Bajaj expressed her dismay, calling the incident both hurtful and racially motivated. “We were stunned. Hurt. But we didn’t stop. Because hate can never overpower faith,” she said in the video. In her caption, she wrote, “We didn’t stop. Because when Lord Jagannath is on the streets, no hate can shake us.”
The video, which has garnered over 1.7 lakh views, shows Bajaj’s resolve and the participants’ commitment to continue the spiritual procession despite the assault. She was part of ISKCON’s 53rd annual Rath Yatra, a widely attended celebration characterized by street processions, bhajans, and community singing.
ISKCON described the Toronto Rath Yatra as a vibrant festival of spiritual expression that welcomes people from all backgrounds to participate in joyous devotion. This year’s incident, however, left many shaken by what they believe was a targeted act of hatred.
Diplomatic Repercussions
The Indian government’s prompt response highlights its growing concern over rising incidents involving the safety and dignity of the Indian diaspora abroad. In recent years, New Delhi has consistently urged foreign governments—especially Canada—to ensure religious and cultural tolerance in their multicultural societies.
India’s strong message to Canada comes at a time when bilateral ties have already been strained over past diplomatic issues. The MEA’s insistence on accountability in this matter is likely to add pressure on Canadian authorities to investigate and ensure such disruptions are not repeated in future cultural or religious events.