Shri Sai performs Chherapahara ritual and seeks blessings for people of the State
Raipur, 07 July 2024/ Bhagwan Jagannath Rath Yatra was celebrated with great fervor in Raipur city, the capital of Chhattisgarh. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai attended the Rath Yatra at the Jagannath Temple located in Gayatri Nagar, Raipur. Before commencing the Rath Yatra, the deity’s idol was brought to the chariot, and the path was ceremonially swept with a golden broom, known as “Cherapahara” ritual.
On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai extended greetings to all the residents of the state. He said that this auspicious festival holds the same significance for Chhattisgarh as it does for Odisha. He emphasized that Lord Jagannath holds the same reverence among the people of Chhattisgarh as He does in Odisha, and His blessings have been equally bestowed upon both regions.
Shri Sai highlighted that Lord Jagannath is considered the protector of farmers. He credited the deity’s grace for rainfall, the growth of paddy, and the prosperity of farmers. He prayed to Lord Jagannath for a bountiful harvest in Chhattisgarh this year. He also prayed to Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra to continue their blessings and lead everyone towards peace, prosperity, and happiness.
Chief Minister Performs Cherapahara Ritual with Golden Broom
The Jagannath Temple in Raipur follows the tradition of Puri’s Rath Yatra. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai performed the Cherapahara ritual by sweeping with a golden broom to inaugurate the Rath Yatra. Following this, he carried the idol of Lord Jagannath to the chariot.
Rath Yatra in Chhattisgarh Inspired by Odisha’s Traditions
Odisha is renowned for the Rath Yatra, and as a neighbouring state, Chhattisgarh has been significantly influenced by this tradition. At the Rath Yatra ceremony conducted today, customary rituals were performed and special prayers were offered to Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra. According to the temple priests, this event symbolizes an unbreakable bond between the cultures of Utkal and Dakshin Kosal. It is believed that the original abode of Lord Jagannath is Shivrinarayan in Chhattisgarh, from where He later moved to Jagannath Puri. Shivrinarayan is also significant as the place where Lord Shri Ram tasted the sweet berries offered by Mata Shabari in the Treta Yuga. Presently, the temple of Nar-Narayan stands at this location.
