Eggs hurled at Canada’s rathyatra procession, NRI says, ‘We didn’t stop’

Eggs were hurled by residents of a building in Canada at Indians who were celebrating the rathyatra on the streets of Toronto, sparking accusations of racism and xenophobia.

A Non-Resident Indian (NRI) living in Canada, Sangna Bajaj, took to Instagram sharing her experience at a Hindu festival procession (rathyatra) by ISKCON in Toronto.

She captioned, “Someone from a nearby building threw eggs at us..Why? Because faith makes noise? Because joy looked unfamiliar? We didn’t stop. Because when Lord Jagannath is on the streets, no hate can shake us.”

The Instagram video showed broken eggs scattered on the sidewalks. Bajaj said that someone from a nearby building threw eggs at the rathyatra procession. If the intention was to stop the procession, it failed. 

“We were stunned. Hurt. But we didn’t stop. Because hate can never overpower faith,” said Bajaj.

Video drags divided comments

An Instagram user commented, “I support eggs”, while another commented, “Hate on faith, sad and unfortunate”.

A user commented, “Cultural differences are beautiful. But why rub them in other people’s faces? You could gather in a temple or a designated area to enjoy your celebration and avoid the drama.”

“Indians are the No.1 immigrant community in Canada, topping education, income, and business contribution. We’re doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, and taxpayers who actually build the economy, not burden it. So, before you cry about a peaceful rathyatra, remember who’s keeping the lights on. You don’t get to disrespect a community that contributes more than most. If multiculturalism bothers you, maybe check your own worth before judging others,” said another Instagrammer.