The Rath Yatra at the Banthia Jagannath Temple was observed in a unique way on Saturday. The Chherra Pahara (cleaning of chariot’s surface with brooms before pulling of the chariot) was conducted by Baleswar Town police station IIC Bijay Murmu as per the tradition. The temple has a tradition since 1976 the incumbent PS IIC would conduct this ritual every year.
“The temple had been in a dilapidated state for years until IIC Das rebuilt it in 1976. He was the first person to do the chherra pahara on the Rath and since then, it has become a tradition the Town police IIC conducts the ritual,” said head priest of the temple Nibash Chandra Panda.
“I came to know about my responsibilities during Rath Yatra from the temple committee. I conducted Chhera Panhara on the Rath and other related rituals. I am fortunate to shoulder this pious responsibility,” said incumbent IIC Bijay Murmu.
The chariot was then pulled by devotees after receipt of Ajna Mala, said temple committee secretary Sudhasindhu Panda.
locals are also quite happy that the tradition of sweeping of chariot floor by the IIC has been kept alive for years. “It increases amicability between public and the police,” said some senior citizens.