A sacred revival: Lord Raghunath’s chariot to shine anew after 15 years

As the serene valley of Kullu prepares for the grandeur of the International Kullu Dasehra, a sacred transformation is underway. After nearly 15 years, Lord Raghunath’s revered chariot—known as the Rath—is being adorned with fresh ceremonial attire, rekindling a tradition steeped in spirituality, artistry and ancestral devotion.

The revitalisation began with a solemn ritual led by Maheshwar Singh, the Chharibardar or chief caretaker of the deity. This marked the commencement of a month-long process, where over 200 metres of vibrant fabric will be meticulously crafted into colourful drapes. The chosen hues—green, red, yellow, white and blue—are said to be Lord Raghunath’s favourites, each symbolising divine blessings and celestial harmony.

Maheshwar Singh shared that changing the chariot’s garments is a time-honoured ritual, observed every 12 to 15 years. This year, as the once-bright fabrics faded into the past, the time felt right to offer the deity a radiant new ensemble ahead of the Dasehra celebrations. “This is not just a makeover—it is an offering of faith, guided by custom and devotion,” he emphasised.

Danvender Singh, the Kardar (caretaker) of the Lord, highlighted the spiritual timing of the work. “We began during an auspicious phase,” he said, noting that the garments will incorporate not only traditional weaves but also intricate decorations, reflecting the cultural soul of the valley.

The sacred duty of adorning the chariot is entrusted to families from Khalogi village in Maharaja Kothi—guardians of this divine craft for generations. Mohar Singh Thakur, a village elder, explained: “This task isn’t merely about stitching. It’s our offering to the divine—a legacy passed from father to son.” These families also carry the chariot’s silver ornaments and garments to Raghunathpur temple as part of their age-old duty.

The stitching itself is a specialised art, entrusted to the family of Sube Ram, a master craftsman known for tailoring attire for deities like Jamadagni Rishi. From Dasehra to Basant Panchami, this chariot stands as a testament to an unbroken lineage of spiritual craftsmanship—where faith meets tradition and every thread tells a sacred story.