Chaka Dera Ritual in Puri Rath Yatra

The Chaka Dera ritual is performed in Puri during the Rath Yatra.

It takes place on the last day of the Bahara Chandan Yatra, known as 'Bhaunri Yatra.'

The Chaka-Akha Dera ceremony is conducted during this occasion.

Also, this marks the beginning of Bhitara Chadan Yatra.

According to tradition, Nahaka Chaka and Nahaka Akha are joined to initiate the construction of other parts of the raths (chariots).

The Chaka Dera ritual is performed after receiving divine garlands of consent ('agyan malas') from Lord Jagannath and his siblings.

The ritual starts with Lord Balabhadra's chariot, 'Taladhwaja,' followed by Lord Jagannath's chariot, 'Nandighosha,' and Devi Subhadra's chariot, 'Darpadalana.'

The Bhoi and Biswakarma Maharana servitors perform the rituals while the atmosphere resonates with the chants of 'Jai Jagannath' and 'Hari Bol'.