Why Is The Golden Broom Used For Chariot Cleaning During The Jagannath Rath Yatra?
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Puri, Odisha comes alive once a year with one of the most majestic festivals in Hindu tradition — the Jagannath Rath Yatra . This year, the sacred journey begins on Friday, 27 June, marking the holy day of Ashadh Shukla Dwitiya Tithi. It's not just a yatra; it's a spiritual celebration steeped in history, devotion, and vibrant culture.
Every year, the deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra step out of the sanctum of the Jagannath Temple to embark on a city-wide journey in grand chariots. Lakhs of devotees throng the streets of Puri for a chance to pull these chariots — a symbolic act believed to cleanse one of all sins and bring immense spiritual merit.
As Vedic mantras fill the air, the golden broom sweeps the streets, reminding everyone that no service is too small when it comes to welcoming the divine. Gold, considered sacred in Hindu belief, is used here not for its value, but for its spiritual purity.
Since then, this yatra has been celebrated every year. The three deities travel to the Gundicha Temple, where they stay for seven days before returning. This journey is more than just movement — it's a ritual of love, bonding, and divine joy that resonates with millions.
As the wheels begin to turn this 27 June, Puri becomes a living canvas of devotion, reminding us that faith, when celebrated with love and humility, becomes a journey worth taking — year after year.
Every year, the deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra step out of the sanctum of the Jagannath Temple to embark on a city-wide journey in grand chariots. Lakhs of devotees throng the streets of Puri for a chance to pull these chariots — a symbolic act believed to cleanse one of all sins and bring immense spiritual merit.
The Golden Gesture of Devotion: Chhera Pahara
Among the many awe-inspiring rituals of the yatra, Chhera Pahara stands out as deeply symbolic. Before the procession begins, the road for the chariots is cleaned with a golden broom by the royal descendants — a custom that reflects both humility and reverence. It’s not just about physical cleanliness, but a gesture that spiritually prepares the path for the divine.As Vedic mantras fill the air, the golden broom sweeps the streets, reminding everyone that no service is too small when it comes to welcoming the divine. Gold, considered sacred in Hindu belief, is used here not for its value, but for its spiritual purity.
The Legend Behind the Journey
The roots of Rath Yatra go back to a touching mythological tale. Once, Goddess Subhadra expressed her wish to see the city of Puri. To fulfill her desire, her brothers Lord Jagannath and Balabhadra took her on a tour in chariots. Their journey paused for a while at the Gundicha Temple, fondly referred to as their aunt’s home.Since then, this yatra has been celebrated every year. The three deities travel to the Gundicha Temple, where they stay for seven days before returning. This journey is more than just movement — it's a ritual of love, bonding, and divine joy that resonates with millions.
A Festival of Faith and Unity
Jagannath Rath Yatra isn’t just a religious event — it's a spectacular display of faith, unity, and tradition. Devotees, regardless of caste, background, or status, gather together, hands on the same ropes, hearts in the same prayer. The chariots roll, the chants echo, and the city transforms into a moving temple.As the wheels begin to turn this 27 June, Puri becomes a living canvas of devotion, reminding us that faith, when celebrated with love and humility, becomes a journey worth taking — year after year.
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