Chatar Jatra

The people of Kalahandi District, Orissa, India, celebrate Chatar Jatra or Chatar Yatra, a traditional event. Maa Manikeswari, the Kalahandi King’s family goddess, is honored at the festival.
Origin :
The ruling deity of the Kalahandi district is Maa Manikeswari. The goddess’s temple is located inside the boundaries of the ex-rulers of Kalahandi, so that the rulers may participate in the fortunate festival Chhatra Jatra, which has since been renamed Chatar yatra.
Plot :
The Chhatra Jatra, also known as Chatar Jatra or Chatar Yatra, is held to commemorate the Vijaya Utsav with a joyful spirit and a spectacular spectacle. During the Mahastami of the Durga Puja festival, the festival is held. During the festival, the Khonds (Adivasis of Kalahandi Districts) execute the rite of Nabakalevar (the renewal of post-worship).
On Mahastami midnight, Maa Manikeswari emerges from the Garbhagriha and travels to Jenakhal, which is about 3 kilometers from the alma mater. On the auspicious morning of Mahanavami, the Jatra begins with Nagar Paribhramana. In the Jatra, Maa Manikeswari is represented by a bamboo covered in black cloth, and at the top is a silver plate with the Dasamahavidya Yantra, which depicts Tantric Hinduism. A tribal dance called Ghumura dance is performed to satisfy Maa Manikeswari. Ghumura is a Kalahandi district custom and heritage dance. It’s a dance accompanied by the Ghumura Veer Badya, a traditional instrument. The dancers wear the Ghumura (badya/instrument) around their necks and hang it from their chests.
Celebration :
Although Thuamul Rampur, Jugasaipatna, and Bhawanipatna are all known for Maa Manikeswari temple, Chatar Jatra is primarily held in the district headquarters of Kalahandi, Bhawanipatna.
This celebration is known for its animal sacrifices. Although the government has strictly prohibited such actions, believers continue to break the law. Approximately 50,000 animals are sacrificed during this occasion.

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