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Key Points

The Gajapati Maharaja performed the revered Chhera Pahanra ritual, sweeping Lord Jagannath’s chariot with a golden broom ahead of the Rath Yatra. PM Modi extended wishes for prosperity on this sacred occasion. ISKCON Dwarka celebrated with a unique mango-themed chariot, distributing 11,000 kg of mangoes. Thousands of devotees gathered in Puri to witness the grand procession of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra.

Key Points: Gajapati Maharaja Performs Chhera Pahanra Ritual at Puri Rath Yatra

  • Gajapati Maharaja sweeps chariots with golden broom
  • PM Modi extends Rath Yatra greetings
  • ISKCON Dwarka hosts mango-themed chariot
  • Devotees throng Puri for grand procession
2 min read

Odisha: Gajapati Maharaja performs Chhera Pahanra ritual, sweeps Rath Yatra chariots with golden broom in Puri

Odisha's Gajapati Maharaja sweeps Lord Jagannath's chariot with a golden broom in the sacred Chhera Pahanra ritual during Puri Rath Yatra.

"May this holy festival of faith bring happiness and prosperity to all – PM Narendra Modi"

Puri, June 27

Erstwhile King of Puri, Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, arrived on Friday to perform the revered Chhera Pahanra ritual during the annual Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha

As part of the centuries-old tradition, the Maharaja swept the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra with a golden broom before the deities embarked on their annual journey to the Gundicha Temple.

Meanwhile, in Chhattisgarh, Governor Ramen Deka extended his greetings on the occasion of Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025.

In West Bengal's East Medinipur district, the first-ever Rath Yatra at the Lord Jagannath temple in Digha began.

The ISCKON Dwarka is organising the biggest Rath Yatra after Jagannath Puri, whose chariot has been designed with 108 types of mangoes. The ISKCON will conduct distribution of 11,000 kg mangoes.

The devotees can get the opportunity to pull the chariot by arriving at ISKCON Dwarka at 4 pm on Friday.

During the festival in Puri, devotees draw the grand chariots of the three deities, Lord Jagannath, his brother Lord Balabhadra, and sister goddess Subhadra, to the Gundicha Temple, where the deities reside for a week before returning to the Jagannath Temple. The Rath Yatra ceremony attracts a large crowd, making traffic management a key issue.

Earlier today, a large number of devotees gathered at the Jagannath temple in Puri, Odisha, as the grand annual Rath Yatra festival began on Friday morning.

People from across the country arrived to witness the grand chariots of the three deities: Lord Jagannath, his brother Lord Balabhadra, and sister goddess Subhadra, at the Gundicha temple, where the deities reside for a week before returning to the Jagannath temple.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings on the occasion of the Jagannath Rath Yatra on Friday. Taking to his official 'X' handle, PM Modi wished for everyone's "happiness, prosperity, good fortune, and excellent health".

"On the sacred occasion of Lord Jagannath's Rath Yatra, my heartfelt best wishes to all fellow countrymen. May this holy festival of faith and devotion bring happiness, prosperity, good fortune, and excellent health to everyone's life. Jai Jagannath!", PM Modi's 'X' post read.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

Here are 6 diverse Indian perspective comments for the article:
P
Priyanka M.
What a beautiful tradition! The Chhera Pahanra ritual shows that in the eyes of God, everyone is equal - even a king must sweep the chariot. This is the essence of Sanatan Dharma. Jai Jagannath! 🙏
A
Amit K.
While I respect the traditions, I hope the authorities are taking proper crowd control measures. Last year there were stampede concerns. Safety of devotees should be top priority along with religious customs.
S
Sunita R.
The mango chariot at ISKCON Dwarka sounds so innovative! Our ancient traditions adapting to modern creativity while keeping the essence intact. Would love to take my kids to see this unique celebration.
R
Rajesh P.
Attended Puri Rath Yatra last year - the energy is unbelievable! But government should improve facilities for pilgrims. More drinking water stations and clean toilets needed. The spiritual experience is divine though!
M
Meena S.
Interesting to see Rath Yatra celebrations spreading across India now - from Puri to Digha to Dwarka. Shows how Jagannath culture is uniting our diverse nation. More power to such inclusive traditions!
V
Vikram D.
The golden broom ritual is profound - teaches humility to all of us. In our busy lives, we forget these simple lessons of equality before the divine. Hope the younger generation understands its significance.

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