Raipur, July 17: Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka and Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Thursday participated in the annual Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra at the Jagannath Temple in Gayatri Nagar here, offering prayers for peace, prosperity, and a bountiful monsoon. The leaders performed the traditional ‘Chhera Pahara’ ritual, sweeping the path of the deities with a golden broom, before the grand chariot procession commenced amid Vedic chants and devotional hymns.

Extending his greetings to the people, Governor Deka said the festival is a vibrant celebration of faith, cultural heritage, and social harmony. He noted that the Rath Yatra carries a profound message of equality and collective welfare, strengthening the rich cultural fabric of the state.

Chief Minister Sai described Lord Jagannath as the ultimate protector of farmers and agriculture. Praying for abundant rainfall this year, the Chief Minister expressed hope for a highly productive farming season, bumper harvests, and rapid progress across Chhattisgarh.

The Gayatri Nagar Rath Yatra is organised annually along the lines of the world-famous festival in Puri, Odisha. Reflecting the deep-rooted cultural ties between the two neighbouring states, the celebrations serve as a spiritual bridge connecting the traditions of Utkal and Dakshin Kosal.

Raipur Member of Parliament (MP) Brijmohan Agrawal, Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Purandar Mishra, senior administrative officers, and thousands of devotees were present on the occasion.