The grand preparations for the world-famous Rath Yatra commenced in Puri with the ceremonial beginning of chariot construction on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya. The ritual marks the symbolic start of Lord Jagannath’s journey to the Janmabedi (birthplace).
Sacred Rituals Mark Auspicious Beginning
Following the arrival of the ‘Agyan Mala’ (divine garlands) from Jagannath Temple, a sacred yajna (fire ritual) was performed at a specially constructed yajna mandap near the temple. Priests, including temple purohits, Rajgurus, and Vedic scholars, conducted the rituals as per tradition. Wooden logs (Dhaura wood), meant for chariot construction, were placed and sanctified through Vedic chants and offerings dedicated to Lord Narasimha.
Divine Procession and Ritual Observances
Before the commencement of construction, the idols of Madanmohan, Sridevi, and Bhudevi were ceremonially brought in a procession on the Mani Vimana. They paused briefly facing the chariot logs, symbolically observing the preparations for the upcoming journey.
Accompanying the rituals were processions of Ram-Krishna idols and Panch Mahadevs—Yameshwar, Lokanath, Kapalamochan, Markandeswar, and Nilakantheswar—who remained present near the Rathakhala (chariot yard) during the ceremonial proceedings.
Traditional Craftsmen Begin Work
After the completion of rituals, the chief Maharana (traditional carpenters) initiated the construction work. The three main chariots—Nandighosha, Taladhwaja, and Darpadalana—will be built using sacred wood.
The chief artisans ceremonially broke coconuts on the designated logs and made the first cuts with consecrated axes, officially marking the start of construction.
Work Progress to Continue in Phases
From tomorrow, work will progress with the construction of the chariot base (Tumba). The shaping of wheels will begin during Bhaunri and continue until the festival of Sheetala Sasthi. The process follows strict guidelines mentioned in ancient Rath Samhita traditions.
Earlier, preliminary rituals such as the sanctification of wood during Saraswati Puja and the cutting of logs on Ram Navami had already been completed.
Officials and Servitors Offer Prayers
Senior officials, including Chief Administrator Dr. Arabinda Padhee, District Collector Divyajyoti Parida, and SP Prateek Singh, along with temple servitors, offered prayers seeking the smooth and successful completion of the chariot construction.
Countdown to the Grand Festival Begins
With the commencement of chariot construction, the spiritual atmosphere in Puri has intensified, signaling the beginning of preparations for one of India’s largest religious festivals. Devotees across the world now await the grand Rath Yatra, when Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra embark on their annual journey.