The Chief Minister performed the sacred Chhera Pahara ritual before outlining key infrastructure projects, including Jashpur’s upcoming rail link and medical college.
Raipur: Blending deep-rooted faith with a progressive development agenda, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai took to the streets of Dokra village in the Jashpur district to celebrate the historic Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra Mahotsav-2026. Stepping into the traditional role of the Gajapati Maharaja, the Chief Minister, accompanied by his wife Kausalya Sai, captivated onlookers as they performed the sacred Chhera Pahara ritual. In a profound display of humility and devotion, CM Sai symbolically swept the chariot’s path using a golden broom and sprinkled holy water infused with sandalwood before pulling the grand chariot of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, praying for the happiness, prosperity, and good health of the state’s citizens.
Addressing the massive gathering of devotees, the Chief Minister reflected on the region’s rich spiritual heritage, noting that the Dokra Rath Yatra is a cherished tradition dating back to 1942. This year marked the second grand procession since the temple’s extensive, publicly funded renovation and consecration in 2025. He also proudly highlighted Chhattisgarh’s enduring cultural connection to Odisha, pointing out that the state’s famed Devbhog rice continues to be a staple used in the preparation of Puri’s sacred Mahaprasad.
Transitioning seamlessly from faith to governance, CM Sai used the auspicious platform to reiterate his administration’s commitment to public welfare. He announced a three-month extension of the surcharge waiver scheme for electricity consumers, aimed at providing immediate financial relief. Additionally, he highlighted the implementation of round-the-clock grievance redressal through the Chief Minister Helpline 1076 and the streamlined digital delivery of over 520 government services through the Atal Digital Seva Kendras, bringing governance directly to the doorsteps of the people.
Turning his focus to regional advancement, the Chief Minister shared landmark updates for Jashpur’s future. He announced that the approved Dharamjaigarh-Lohardaga rail project would finally connect the district to the national rail network, unlocking massive economic potential. Furthermore, he emphasized that the newly sanctioned medical college would fundamentally strengthen local healthcare infrastructure and provide a massive boost to higher education in the district. The vibrant celebration was witnessed by several prominent figures, including Padma Shri Jageshwar Yadav, Zila Panchayat President Salik Sai, Commissioner Narendra Dugga, and IG Deepak Kumar Jha, alongside members of the temple organizing committee and thousands of enthusiastic devotees.
