Bhubaneswar: The sacred town of Puri witnessed the performance of the Chaka-Akha Dera ritual on Monday, marking an important step in the construction of the grand chariots for Lord Jagannath’s annual Rath Yatra.
This ritual, conducted during the auspicious Bhaunri Yatra, signifies the completion of a traditional milestone in the chariot-making process.
In accordance with age-old customs, the Agyan Mala (a garland symbolizing divine order) was ceremoniously transported to the Ratha Khala (chariot-making yard), symbolizing the divine approval to proceed with the construction of the chariots.
The Chaka-Akha Dera ritual involves the installation of two wheels and an axle on each of the three chariots dedicated to Lord Balabhadra, Lord Jagannath, and Devi Subhadra.
This is a significant occasion during the Bhaunri Yatra, which marks the final day of the Bahara Chandan Yatra, before the remaining 21 days of the Bhitara Chandan Yatra take place within the premises of the Shree Jagannath Temple.
This revered ancient tradition holds immense significance for the devotees, as it marks a key phase in the preparations for the world-famous Rath Yatra.
Speaking to reporters, Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), confirmed that the Chaka-Akha-Dera ritual had been conducted smoothly, with chariot construction proceeding as planned.
