Puri: The ceremonial cutting of timber for the construction of the sacred chariots of Lord Jagannath’s annual Rath Yatra began on Friday with traditional rituals, marking a key step in the elaborate preparations for the world-famous festival.
Following centuries-old customs, the ritual was initiated on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami, a day considered sacred for beginning important religious activities associated with the Jagannath Temple.
Ritual Begins with ‘Agnya Mala’
The ceremony commenced with the arrival of the revered ‘Agnya Mala’, a garland symbolising the divine permission of Lord Jagannath to begin the chariot-building process.
The offering of the Agnya Mala from the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri signifies the formal approval of the deity for initiating construction work.
After the completion of Vedic rituals and traditional ceremonies, the timber cutting process officially began at the Khapuria Government Timber Mill in Cuttack.
First Phase of Timber Processing
During the first phase, three logs of ‘Dhaura’ wood, each measuring around 12 feet, were carefully cut. The Dhaura wood is traditionally used for building specific parts of the massive chariots used during the Rath Yatra.
Officials said that more timber will be processed in phases over the coming days, following strict religious customs and traditional craftsmanship.
Temple Officials and Servitors Present
The event was attended by several key officials and temple servitors to ensure that the rituals were conducted according to established traditions.
Among those present were:
- Arabinda Padhee, Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA)
- Rath Maharana, the chief artisan responsible for chariot construction
- Other temple functionaries and servitors associated with the festival preparations
Their presence ensured that the entire process adhered to both religious traditions and administrative guidelines.
Beginning of Sacred Chariot Construction
The timber-cutting ceremony marks the official start of the intricate process of constructing the three grand chariots used during Rath Yatra:
- Nandighosa – Chariot of Lord Jagannath
- Taladhwaja – Chariot of Lord Balabhadra
- Darpadalana – Chariot of Goddess Subhadra
The chariot construction is carried out by skilled artisans belonging to hereditary Maharana and Bhoi servitor families, who follow centuries-old techniques passed down through generations.
Preparations for the Grand Festival
The beginning of timber cutting signals the start of preparations for the world-renowned Rath Yatra festival in Puri, which attracts millions of devotees and visitors from across India and abroad every year.
The festival is not only a major religious event but also a reflection of Odisha’s rich spiritual heritage, craftsmanship, and cultural traditions.
