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Jagannath Rath Yatra is not just a religious festival, but is considered to be the biggest festival of faith of crores of devotees. Every year Lord Jagannath, elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra set out on a journey to Gundicha temple riding in grand chariots. Lakhs of devotees from India and abroad reach Puri to see this journey and pull the chariot.

Before the start of the Rath Yatra, a special ritual is performed, which is called ‘Chhera Pahara’. During this, Gajapati Maharaj of Puri himself cleans the path in front of the Lord’s chariot with a golden broom. This tradition gives the message that kings and common people are equal before God. Also, the golden broom is considered a symbol of purity, auspiciousness and humble service towards God.

What is the tradition of Chhera Pahra?

Before the beginning of the Rath Yatra, Gajapati Maharaj of Puri arrives in front of the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra. There he cleans the chariot and its surrounding areas with reverence with a broom with a gold handle. During this period, worship is also done as per the rituals. This ancient tradition has been followed for many generations and is counted among the most sacred and special rituals of Jagannath Rath Yatra.

Why is only a golden broom used?

In Hindu religion, gold is considered a symbol of purity, auspiciousness and prosperity. This is the reason why a broom with a gold handle is used in this special ritual before the Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath. There is a religious belief that this welcomes God respectfully and before the commencement of the Rath Yatra, auspiciousness, positive energy and auspicious atmosphere is spread in the entire environment.

Why does Gajapati Maharaj himself sweep?

Gajapati Maharaj of Puri is considered the traditional king there, but during the Rath Yatra, he himself serves the Lord by using a golden broom. Through this tradition the message is given that no one is big or small in front of Lord Jagannath. Be it a king or a common man, everyone is equal in the eyes of God. For this reason, this ritual is considered a symbol of service, humility and true devotion towards God.

Why is it special for devotees?

It is believed that seeing this sacred ritual of Chhera Pahara is also considered auspicious. Lakhs of devotees wait for this moment every year. They believe that observing this tradition and taking blessings of Lord Jagannath brings happiness, peace and prosperity in life. For this reason, this tradition of sweeping the path with a golden broom is still counted among the most unique and devotion traditions of Jagannath Rath Yatra.