CM Sai participated in the Rath Yatra, performed the traditional ‘Chera-Pahara’ ritual
Raipur, June 27
The annual Rath Yatra Mahotsav was once again celebrated with traditional devotion, faith, and grandeur at the historic and ancient Shri Jagannath Temple in Dokra, Jashpur district. Before the chariots were pulled, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai and his wife Smt. Kaushalya Devi Sai performed the rituals and offered prayers to Lord Jagannath, brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra, seeking the happiness, prosperity, and well-being of the people of the state. The Chief Minister also performed the traditional ‘Chera-Pahara’ ritual by sweeping the path of the chariots with a broom.
Chief Minister Sai took part in the procession along with thousands of devotees. The faithful pulled the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra forward using ropes. The entire atmosphere echoed with chants of “Jai Jagannath,” devotional songs, and vibrant spiritual energy. The procession passed through the main roads and reached Mausibadi, where the deities will stay for nine days at their aunt’s house. The grand return to the Jagannath Temple in Dokra will take place on July 5, the ninth day. This celebration mirrors the traditional Rath Yatra of Puri, Odisha.
Rath Yatra tradition in Dokra has been ongoing since 1942
The Rath Yatra in Dokra began in the year 1942. It was started with great devotion and dedication by the late Shri Sudarshan Satpathy and his wife, the late Smt. Sushila Satpathy. Since then, the tradition has continued uninterrupted with deep faith and enthusiasm. Over time, the event has transformed into a grand religious fair, witnessing massive participation from devotees.
To mark the occasion, kirtan groups invited from Odisha gave captivating devotional performances, filling the atmosphere with spiritual fervor. The Yatra also featured various religious and cultural tableaux, beautifully showcasing the glory of Lord Jagannath and the rich cultural diversity of the region.
Nine-day-long religious celebration
Members of the Shri Jagannath Temple Committee, Dokra, shared that the Rath Yatra is celebrated as a nine-day grand religious and cultural festival. During this time, the temple premises and the village of Dokra are immersed in devotion and celebration. The entire festival includes various religious rituals, devotional singing, musical performances, cultural programs, and competitions for children and youth, infusing the entire area with spiritual energy and cultural vibrancy.
A large fair has also been organized in Dokra during the Rath Yatra, further enhancing the festivity. The fairground features entertainment rides, stalls offering delicious foods, traditional handicrafts, and other attractions that serve as a source of joy for all. This event is a beautiful confluence of faith, culture, and social harmony.