Chhari Yatra begins, to reach Manimahesh lake on Sept 11

With the Manimahesh pilgrimage halfway through, the Chhari Yatra to the sacred lake commenced this evening with religious fervour after offering of prayers at the Panch Dashnam Juna Akhada in Chamba.

Sadhus from the akhada, devotees and government officials, led by Mahant Yatindra Giri of the Dashnam Akhada, carrying sacred symbols of Lord Shiva, the presiding deity of the Yatra, accompanied the holy mace.

Every year, the Chhari Yatra is organised by the Panch Juna Dashnam Akhada from Chamba for the royal bath at the sacred Manimahesh lake. For over 1,000 years, the akhada has upheld the tradition of carrying the Chhari to Manimahesh.

Mahant Yatindra Giri noted that King Sahil Varman, founder of the Chamba princely state, established the Dashnam Akhada, after which the Chhari Yatra had been a continuous tradition.

Giri said in Indian spiritual tradition, the ‘danda’ was used as a symbol of the guru or spiritual teacher, reminding the followers to adhere to the teachings and guidance of the guru.

It also serves as a practical walking aid, especially for spiritual travellers who may cover long distances on foot. During the spiritual guru’s journey, the ‘chhari’ can also provide protection against potential threats.

Giri said the ‘chhari’ will make stops at seven different locations before reaching the lake on September 11, on the occasion of Radhaashtmi, marking the end of the yatra.

From the Dashnam Akhada, the yatra goes to the Laxminarayan Temple. The first stop will be at the Shri Radha-Krishna Temple in Julahakari locality of Chamba town.

On the second day, will reach Rakh village. The stopover on the third day will be at Durgethi, while the next day the Yatra will each Bharmour. On September 8, the Charri Yatra will make an overnight halt at Harsar on September 9 at Dhancho. On September 11, the sacred mace will depart for the Manimahesh lake reaching there on the last day of the pilgrimage.