Rath Yatra: Gajapati Maharaja Performs Chhera Pahanra Ritual

Puri: Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb being the Aadyasevak of Lord Jagannath swept the three chariots as part of the Chhera Pahanra ritual on the auspicious occasion of the Rath Yatra on Tuesday.

As per the ritual, the ceremonial sweeping of the three chariot floors with a golden broom.   Thereafter fragrant sandal water is sprinkled on the surface of the chariots to sanctify them.

The Chhera Pahanra ritual signifies that there is no distinction between the king and a sweeper. The King, as the foremost servitor, performs the ignoble job of a sweeper as a mark of utmost humility in the presence of the Lord of the Universe.

The ritual which started over centuries ago continues to impart the message that there should be no discrimination on the basis of caste, creed and any other barrier before the almighty.

After the cleansing of the chariots by the Gajapati Maharaja and his departure to the palace, the wooden horses- painted in brown, black and white colour – are fixed to the three chariots and the chariot pulling begins.