Governor Shri Ramen Deka and Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai participate in Jagannath Rath Yatra in Raipur
Rath Yatra reflects faith, cultural heritage and social harmony: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai
Raipur, July 16, 2026/ Governor Shri Ramen Deka and Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai today participated in the annual Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra at the Jagannath Temple in Gayatri Nagar, Raipur. They offered prayers to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, performed the traditional ‘Chhera Pahara’ ritual and prayed for peace, prosperity, good health, timely rainfall and the well-being of the people of Chhattisgarh.
Extending Rath Yatra greetings to the people of the state, Governor Shri Ramen Deka and Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said the festival is a vibrant celebration of faith, cultural heritage, social harmony and public participation. Rath Yatra carries the message of service, equality, devotion and collective welfare while strengthening the state’s rich cultural traditions.
Chief Minister said Lord Jagannath is revered as the protector of farmers and agriculture. Praying for abundant rainfall this year, he expressed hope for a prosperous farming season, good harvests and continued progress and prosperity for Chhattisgarh.
Shri Sai prayed for the blessings of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra upon the people of the state and said such religious and cultural celebrations strengthen social harmony, unity and collective consciousness.
Earlier, Governor and Chief Minister performed the traditional Chhera Pahara ritual by ceremonially sweeping the path before the chariot with a golden broom, symbolising humility and equality before the Almighty. The deities were then ceremonially placed on the chariot, marking the commencement of the Rath Yatra amid Vedic chants, devotional hymns and the participation of a large number of devotees.
The Rath Yatra at the Jagannath Temple in Gayatri Nagar is organized every year on the lines of the renowned Rath Yatra in Puri. Chhera Pahara symbolises equality before the Lord and the spirit of selfless service.
Sharing a border with Odisha, Chhattisgarh has a deep-rooted tradition of devotion to Lord Jagannath. Rath Yatra is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm across many parts of the state, serving as a cultural bridge between the traditions of Utkal and Dakshin Kosal.
MP Shri Brijmohan Agrawal, MLA Shri Purandar Mishra, chairpersons of various corporations, boards and commissions, senior public representatives, representatives of social and religious organisations, and a large number of devotees were present on the occasion.
