Preparations for the world-famous Rath Yatra have gathered momentum as construction work on the three grand chariots of the sibling deities continues in Puri.
In a major milestone, all 42 wheels required for the annual festival have now been completed, while work on several other key structural and decorative components is progressing simultaneously.
Axle Construction Begins For Three Chariots
With the wheel-making phase now complete, Maharana servitors have started the construction of axles for the chariots.
A total of 21 axles are required for the three chariots used during Rath Yatra. Out of these, three ceremonial axles prepared for the Chaka Dera ritual had already been completed earlier.
Work has now commenced on the remaining 18 axles as servitors intensify preparations for the annual festival.
A Maharana servitor involved in the work said efforts are being made to complete the wooden construction within the scheduled timeframe.
He stated that rainfall may cause minor delays in the process, but assured that the work would be completed on time ahead of the festival.
Important Rituals Performed During Construction
On Thursday, the sacred Anukula Puja ritual for the installation of 12 Chaupata Bhui Chauta bindings for each of the three chariots was conducted by the Chief Maharana servitor.
Following the rituals, Maharana servitors and their assistants continued fixing:
- Four Pakhuda bindings on each Bhui Chauta
- One Khambi binding on both sides of the structures
The activities marked another significant stage in the assembly of the massive wooden chariots that will carry Lord Jagannath and His siblings during the annual procession.
Intricate Decorative Carving Work Underway
Alongside structural construction, Rupakara servitors are continuing detailed carving and ornamental work on different parts of the chariots.
Traditional Singha Birala (lion-cat) motifs are currently being carved onto the Sala Guja and Tikha Guja components of the three chariots.
Servitors are also engaged in:
- Polishing completed carvings
- Adding ornamental finishing details
- Modifying Kona Guja structures with decorative motifs
The intricate craftsmanship reflects Odisha’s rich temple art traditions and centuries-old Rath Yatra heritage.
Preparations Intensify Ahead Of Ghosa Yatra
Construction and decorative activities are continuing simultaneously as preparations intensify for the annual Ghosa Yatra, one of the largest religious festivals in India.
Every year, lakhs of devotees from across the country and abroad visit Puri to witness the grand procession of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra on the towering wooden chariots.
The ongoing chariot construction remains one of the most significant and sacred pre-festival rituals associated with the Jagannath tradition.
