The famous Jagannath Rath Yatra of Puri is considered one of the largest religious events in the world. Every year in the month of Ashadh, Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra leave for the city tour. A special tradition is performed before this grand journey, which is called ‘Chhera Pahara’. In this ritual, Gajapati Maharaj of Puri himself cleans the ground in front of the chariot with a broom with a gold handle.
There is a religious belief that through this tradition the message is given that every person is equal before God and service is the greatest religion.
When will Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026 take place?
According to the Hindu calendar, Jagannath Rath Yatra is taken out on Ashadh Shukla Dwitiya Tithi. In the year 2026, this holy Rath Yatra will start from 16th July 2026. On this day, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra will proceed towards Gundicha temple on their respective huge chariots.
During Rath Yatra, lakhs of devotees reach Puri to have darshan of the Lord and pull the chariot. The festival lasts for several days and culminates with the return journey of the Lord i.e. Bahuda Yatra.
What is Chhera Pahara ritual?
Chhera Pahara is one of the most important traditions of Jagannath Rath Yatra. In this ritual, Gajapati Maharaj of Puri cleans the chariots with a broom with a gold handle and sprinkles water mixed with sandalwood.
The purpose of this tradition is to show that even the king is like a servant in front of Lord Jagannath. This ritual is considered a symbol of the king giving up his ego and serving God.
What is the significance of the golden broom?
According to religious beliefs, the golden broom is not only a symbol of royal splendor, but it also reflects dedication and service spirit towards God. Generally, the work of cleaning is considered small, but through the Chhera Pahara ritual it is told that no work is small or big in the service of God.
This tradition has been going on for centuries and is still followed with full devotion even today.
Why is Jagannath Rath Yatra special?
In Jagannath Rath Yatra, Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra appear on three different huge chariots and give darshan to the devotees. It is believed that participating in this journey and pulling the chariot of the Lord brings special virtue.
Rath Yatra is not only a religious event, but also a symbol of Indian culture, tradition and faith. Rituals like Chhera Pahara show that position, prestige and wealth have no importance in devotion, but true devotion and service have the greatest place.
