Shamba Dashami Chariot Procession Held in Konark

Konark: The traditional chariot procession took place in Konark, Odisha, on the auspicious occasion of Shamba Dashami. The festival, deeply rooted in mythology, sees devotees worshipping the Sun God at Chandrabhaga beach, seeking the well-being of their offspring.

According to legend, the mythological figure Shamba was cured of an incurable disease after worshipping the Sun God at the Chandrabhaga tirtha. To commemorate this event, people across the region pay homage to the Sun God on Shamba Dashami.

In Konark, every household worships Suryadev on this day. The Saur Brahmins perform a Shanti Maha Yagnya at the Abdhuta Mutt, near the iconic Konark Sun Temple, praying for the well-being of all.

As part of the celebrations, the idol of Surya Narayan is placed on a chariot and taken to the Chotababa Mutt near Chandrabhaga Tirtha. Offerings of traditional delicacies such as Kakara, Bara, and Poda Pitha are made on the chariot. The Mahanta of the Mutt performs the ‘chhera pahara’ ritual before hundreds of devotees pull the chariot to the Chandrabhaga beach.

The chariot remains at Chandrabhaga Tirtha until Magha Sukla Saptami, when the idols undergo a Mahasnana at the Mahodadhi. Following the holy bath, the procession returns to the Abdhuta Mutt, concluding the festivities.

The event draws significant participation, highlighting the cultural and spiritual heritage of Odisha.