Governor attends Rath Yatra celebrations in Gangtok

HEMIKA NAG

GANGTOK,: The annual Rath Yatra was celebrated with enthusiasm, fervour and devotion at Thakurbari Mandir and M.G. Marg today under the auspices of the Sri Jagannath Sanskrutika Samiti.

Governor Om Prakash Mathur graced the occasion as the chief guest, while Gangtok MLA Delay Namgyal Barfungpa attended as the guest of honour. 

The Governor offered prayers at the temple and participated in the religious rituals before being offered Mahaprasad. The celebrations then witnessed the sacred Pahandi Bije, the ceremonial procession of the deities Lord Sri Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra from Thakurbari Mandir to the decorated chariot at M.G. Marg.

At M.G. Marg, the Governor and MLA performed the traditional Chhera Pahanra, the ceremonial sweeping of the Rath, symbolising humility and equality before the divine. They later joined the devotees of Gangtok in the ceremonial pulling of the Rath, marking the highlight of the festival amid devotional band procession and energetic participation by the public.

The Rath Yatra was celebrated in a spiritually uplifting atmosphere, with devotees from across the city gathering to witness and participate in one of the most significant festivals of the nation.