Christians vs. Krishnas

   Another volley was fired in the long-running battle between the Hare Krishnas and fundamentalist Christians during the Hare Krishna’s annual Parade of the Chariots Sunday, August 1. 

   Ocean Front Walk was lined with crowds of acolytes and curious passersby. The sun struck sparks off the mirror-spangled chariots painted in reds and strung with chains of golden marigolds. Crowds of devotees in rainbow-hued saris clapped their hands, clanged their cymbals and sang as they hauled the two-story chariots down the walk. 

   A fundamentalist in a cow suit with a bullhorn bellowed, “Why don’t you get a mule? Why are you hauling that thing yourselves? Are you going to come back in your next life as a mule?” His friends carried placards claiming that those who did not repent would burn in hell. 

   The Hare Krishnas smiled tolerantly and seemed to take it all in stride.

   Text & photos: Carolanne Sudderth