Koraput gears up for annual Rath Yatra festival
Koraput: With less than a week remaining, carpenters are putting finishing touches on the towering chariot as the tribal heartland of Koraput gears up for the Rath Yatra at Sabara Srikhetra.
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Unlike Puri Rath Yatra, the celebration at Sabara Srikhetra is deeply rooted in tribal customs, where devotion is expressed through rituals, community labour and cultural pride. "Tribals celebrate the festival with enthusiasm, showcasing their unique traditions. The event draws men, women and children from remote hilly villages to witness the grand procession of the deities," said Prafulla Padhi, a local cultural enthusiast.
In keeping with tradition, tribal priests perform all rituals while the deities are in Anasara Ghruha (sanctum sanctorum) during the quarantine period. The ceremonial 'Chhera Pahanra' ritual is conducted by three tribal community members from Rangabali Kumbha, Kotia and Kakrigumma.
"The practice of tribal participation in Chhera Pahanra has continued since the first Rath Yatra held on July 12, 1972," said Bhabani Sankar Acharya, secretary of the temple management committee.
Officials said that, as per custom, the first bhog (offering) on the chariots is made by tribals from Upper Kendapalli village in Nandapur block. This is followed by offerings from the Durua community of Siribeda village in Boipariguda block before the general public is allowed to offer bhog.
"Special invitations are sent to various villages ahead of the festival. During the celebration, tribal groups assist with temple chores, including cooking, cleaning and other responsibilities," said Acharya.
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On the first day, village heads are presented with sirapa (traditional headgear) on the chariots as a token of gratitude from the temple management.
Since 2019, the festival has witnessed the use of three separate chariots for the deities.
Koraput district collector Keerthi Vasan V and SP Rohit Verma on Saturday assessed the 1.5-km stretch along which the chariots will be pulled to Gundicha temple.
"All arrangements are being made to ensure a smooth and safe festival. Adequate health teams, drinking water facilities and security measures will be in place for the devotees," the collector added.
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