Servitor Dispute Halts ‘Chapa Khela’ During Chandan Yatra in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: In an unfortunate turn of events, the traditional ‘Chapa Khela’ (boat ride) ritual associated with Lord Jagannath was cancelled on the ninth day of the ongoing Chandan Yatra following a dispute between two groups of servitors.

As per reports, the deities — Madanmohan, Ramakrishna, and the Pancha Pandavas — were brought to Narendra Pushkarini for the ritual. However, they remained seated in the decorated boats for a prolonged period as the ‘Chapa Khela’ ceremony could not be conducted.

The disruption reportedly stemmed from a conflict between the Singhari Nijog and Sudu Suar Nijog servitors. Sources said members of the Sudu Suar Nijog allegedly prevented others from boarding the boats, bringing the ritual to a complete standstill.

Despite efforts by the district administration to mediate and resolve the impasse, no consensus could be reached between the feuding groups, forcing the cancellation of the much-anticipated night ritual.

The incident left devotees, who had gathered in large numbers to witness the sacred boat ride, deeply disappointed and upset over the disruption.

Chandan Yatra is considered one of the most significant festivals associated with Lord Jagannath, and the ‘Chapa Khela’ ritual holds special importance as it symbolizes the deities enjoying a ceremonial boat ride to seek relief from the intense summer heat.

The incident has since drawn criticism from devotees across the state, raising concerns over the management of rituals at such a prominent religious festival.