Report by OD bureau; Madison: RathaJatra was held at Madison, Wisconsin in USA on June 21, 2012. Madison is a small town known for a world-class University. Although very few Odiya families reside here the entire non-Odia community was motivated and American Hindu Association celebrated Ratha Jatra with high energy and true spirit.

On this occasion Jagannatha Bigraha Pranapratistha was organized by American Hindu Association, Madison. This has opened up interests among non-Odias to learn about Jagannath Mahima and rituals.

 RathJatra celebration was well planned and organized with SnanaPurnima, Netroshaba and GundichaJatra. On June 24th, Gundicha Jatra was attended by more than 250 people mostly non-Oriyas. Odia families from nearby places like Milwaukee, WI and Dubuque, IA also attended this function.

Odissi and Bharatnatyam were performed infront of Ratha. Devotional songs were flowing throughout. Elaborate Prasad arrangements fitting to 56bhog offered to the LORD were made for all devotees who attended RathJatra. Lasis, water and watermelon were provided while Ratha was being pulled.

The entire temple premise of 7 acres bore festive look with tents all over the property. Again BahudaJatra will be performed on the 1st July when deities will return to main temple. Puja arrangements have been made to carryout Jagannath and Lakshmipuja on that day.