Jagannath Rath Yatra: Why does Gajapati Maharaj use broom in Jagannath Rath Yatra of Puri? Know the history, religious importance and message of ‘Chhera Pahanra’ tradition…
What is Chhera Pahanra: In Puri’s Jagannath Rath Yatra, one can see a sight which is not seen in any other big religious program of the country. Gajapati Maharaja of Odisha (traditional king of Puri) cleans the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra with a broom with a gold handle. This tradition is called ‘Chhera Pahanra’. This is not just a ritual of cleanliness, there is a religious and social message behind it. Let us know what is this unique tradition and why do kings do this…
What is ‘Chhera Pahanra’?
‘Chhera’ means sweeping and ‘Pahanra’ means serving. Before the Rath Yatra begins, Gajapati Maharaj climbs on all three chariots. After this they clean the floor of the chariot with a special broom with a gold handle. Also sprinkle scented water and sandalwood mix water. This ritual has been going on for centuries.
Why does the king use broom in Rath Yatra?
It is believed that Lord Jagannath is the real king of this universe. Any king on earth considers himself only a servant in front of them. To show this feeling, Gajapati Maharaj uses a broom. Its message is that everyone is equal before God. Whether one is a king, a minister or a common man, the greatest honor in the court of God is service.
Since when has the ‘Chhera Pahanra’ tradition been going on?
This tradition is several hundred years old. It is being performed continuously since the time of Gajapati kings. Gajapati Maharaj of Puri has got a special place in the traditional services of Shri Jagannath Temple. Even today this tradition continues without any change.
What is the significance of the golden broom in ‘Chhera Pahanra’ tradition?
Many people think that when the king sweeps, an ordinary broom will be used. but it’s not like that. In this ritual a special broom with a golden handle is used. Gold is considered here as a symbol of royal honor and supreme respect towards God. However, the greatest significance of this ritual is not that the broom is made of gold, but that it is served by the king.
What is the message of Chhera Pahanra for the common people?
Chhera Pahanra is not just a religious tradition, but also gives many big messages about life. Like- service is the biggest religion. Position and power are not permanent. Everyone is equal before God. Leadership means not just ruling but also serving.
Is Chhera Pahanra tradition held only in Puri?
The tradition of Chhera Pahanra is performed only in the Rath Yatra of Puri. However, wherever Jagannath Rath Yatra is organized in the country and abroad, people serve symbolically in the same spirit at many places.
An interesting story related to the tradition of Chhera Pahanra
During the Rath Yatra, lakhs of devotees see Gajapati Maharaj sweeping the broom. This is a rare occasion when a king himself publicly serves as a servant of God. This scene makes Jagannath Rath Yatra one of the most unique religious events in the world.
Content Source: Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), Puri), Odisha Tourism, Skanda Purana (Purushottama Mahatmya), Ministry of Culture, Government of India.