In Puri, the sacred preparations for Lord Jagannath’s world-famous Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) have officially begun. The first steps in this deeply spiritual journey took place on Akshaya Tritiya, an auspicious Hindu festival symbolizing eternal prosperity. This day marks the beginning of the construction of the three grand chariots for Lord Jagannath and his siblings—Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.
Sacred Start with “Agyan Mala” and Rituals
As per age-old tradition, Sevayats (temple servitors) initiated the process by offering sacred garlands known as Agyan Mala to the logs that will be shaped into chariots. This garland represents divine permission from the deities, officially granting the go-ahead to begin the chariot construction.
Chariot Construction Begins: “Ratha Katha Anukula” Rituals
The actual construction work started with a special ceremony called “Ratha Katha Anukula”, which literally means “beginning of the chariot woodwork.” During this ritual:
- Vishwakarma Maharana Sevayats—skilled carpenters and hereditary artisans—performed a puja (worship) for the tools and wood.
- A sacred saree was tied to the logs as part of a traditional blessing.
- Logs were then symbolically cut using a golden axe, which signifies purity and divine approval.
Construction began first with the chariot of Taladhwaja (for Lord Balabhadra), followed by Nandighosha (for Lord Jagannath), and finally Darpadalana (for Devi Subhadra). All of these use specially selected Dhaura wood, and three key logs have already been prepared.
Chandan Jatra Also Begins
Alongside the chariot-building rituals, the Chandan Yatra festival also commenced. This marks a unique and cooling ritual where:
- The deities’ movable idols (representing their presence)—Lord Madanmohan (representing Lord Jagannath), and goddesses Sridevi and Bhudevi—are taken for ceremonial boat rides on the Narendra Pokhari, a sacred pond in Puri.
- These “Chapa Khela” or boat rituals help provide symbolic relief to the deities from the sweltering summer heat and are celebrated with devotion and festivity for several days.
What Lies Ahead in the Ritual Calendar
Speaking on the significance of the day, Arabinda Padhee, Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), expressed joy that the rituals began smoothly with the cooperation of all involved and the divine blessings of Lord Jagannath.
He also mentioned that several other rituals will follow in the coming weeks, including:
- Bahara Chandan (outer sandalwood festival)
- Bhitara Chandan (inner sandalwood ritual)
- Snana Yatra (the ceremonial bathing of the deities)
- Ghosha Yatra (processions and associated festivals)
The Rath Yatra is not just a religious event but a cultural and emotional centerpiece of Odisha’s heritage. With the start of the rituals on Akshaya Tritiya, Puri is once again brimming with spiritual energy and anticipation. From skilled artisans shaping the divine chariots to devotees eagerly awaiting the procession day, every moment reflects deep-rooted devotion and centuries-old tradition.
