Chief Minister Rekha Gupta attends the inauguration of the Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra in Rohini, performs the sacred ‘Chhera Pahara’ ritual

New Delhi, 16 July 2026 : Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Thursday participated in the sacred Lord Jagannath Rath Yatras held in the Capital. She attended the inaugural ceremony of the 21st Annual Rath Yatra at the Lord Jagannath Temple in Rohini. On the occasion, she offered prayers to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra. She also performed the traditional ‘Chhera Pahara’ ritual by ceremonially sweeping the path in front of the chariot. A large number of devotees, representatives of social organisations and public representatives were present during the event. The event was also attended by North West Delhi MP Yogendra Chandolia, Delhi Cabinet Minister Ravinder Indraj Singh and other dignitaries. Later, the Chief Minister also took part in the Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra organised by the Shiv Mandir Jagannath Darbar, Saini Dharamshala Samiti, in Shalimar Bagh, where she joined devotees in offering prayers.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said that Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra is not merely a religious celebration but a symbol of the great tradition of service, devotion and public welfare. She said the custom of sweeping in front of the chariot conveys the message that public service and humility are the true hallmarks of leadership. She added that it was a matter of immense joy and privilege for her to be part of the grand Rath Yatra and, as the representative of the State, to have the opportunity to serve by performing the ceremonial sweeping before the Lord’s chariot. She prayed that, with the blessings of Lord Jagannath, Delhi continues to move steadily on the path of development and that every resident of the Capital is blessed with happiness, prosperity and well-being.

The Chief Minister prayed that the blessings of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra always remain with the people of Delhi and that their divine grace gives fresh momentum to the resolve of building a ‘Viksit Delhi’.

She said such religious and cultural events not only keep our rich traditions alive but also strengthen social unity and mutual harmony. Wishing peace, prosperity and happiness to all devotees, she concluded the programme with chants in praise of Lord Jagannath.