A chariot festival through the streets of Ilford brought out thousands of spectators.

East London’s Indian and Hare Krishna community staged their 11th Jagannath Rathyatra parade on Sunday (October 6).

Organisers said the annual event sees ‘the Lord of the Universe’ Jagannath, a deity worshipped in Hinduism, “show his mercy upon everyone”.

Community and temple leaders and monks were joined by Ilford South MP Jas Athwal, Mayor of Redbridge Sheila Bain, Redbridge Council leader Kam Rai and other councillors.

The chariot procession began with a traditional breaking coconuts ceremony outside Ilford Town Hall.

This was followed by sweeping the street, dancing in front of the chariot and singing by Hare Krishna devotees with followers performing Kirtan music.

Organisers estimate that 2,000 spectators took part in the festival, which finished at Valentines Park with cultural performances.

Activities included magic shows, henna and face painting, home blessings, a Jagannath grotto, Kirtan and Bhakti Yoga and Mantra meditation.

The festival ended with a vegetarian feast that forms an integral part of the Rathayatra with 2,500 meals being served.