Bhubaneswar, April 29: In an unfortunate turn of events, the traditional ‘Chapa Khela’ (boat ride) of Lord Jagannath and associated deities was cancelled on the ninth day of the ongoing Chandan Yatra in Puri due to a dispute between two groups of servitors.

The deities—Madanmohan, Ramakrishna, and the Pancha Pandavas—were ceremoniously brought to Narendra Pushkarini and seated in decorated boats. However, the ritual ‘Chapa Khela’ could not be performed as tensions escalated between the Singhari Nijog and Sudu Suar Nijog.

Sources said the conflict arose after Sudu Suar servitors allegedly prevented others from boarding the boats, leading to a complete halt of the night ceremony. Despite intervention by the district administration and attempts to mediate between the groups, no resolution could be reached.

The cancellation of the ritual left thousands of devotees disappointed, many of whom had gathered to witness the sacred boat ride. Devotees expressed concern over repeated disruptions to temple rituals.

Chandan Yatra is one of the significant festivals associated with Lord Jagannath, and the Chapa Khela holds special importance as it symbolizes the deities enjoying a boat ride in Narendra Tank to beat the summer heat.

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