Message of Support from the Mayor, Ken Livingstone for the Ratha Yatra Festival (Carnival of Chariots).

I am delighted to send my warmest regards to all those attending the Ratha Yatra Festival this year.

This religious and cultural festival, now in its 38th year, has become a well-loved and firmly established event in London's cultural calendar, attracting both Londoners and tourists alike.

Throughout today, festival goers can soak up the carnival atmosphere and enjoy the singing, dancing, drama and food, all of which depicts the culture and philosophy of India. This colourful and lively celebration provides something that everyone can enjoy, regardless of age or background.

The Ratha Yatra Fetival is a fantastic opportunity for all of London's communities to come together to celebrate, recognise and pay tribute to the multicultural diversity that is so unique to London and marks it out as a world city.

I hope you all have a very enjoyable Ratha Yatra Festival, my best wishes for the day.

Yours sincerely

Ken Livingstone

Mayor of London