Chariot Construction for Puri Rath Yatra Progresses Smoothly, 'Bhaunri' Festival Celebrated

Puri, Odisha, May 20 – The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has confirmed that the construction of the three grand chariots for the upcoming Rath Yatra is progressing smoothly. On Monday, the pilgrimage town of Puri celebrated the traditional 'Bhaunri' festival, marking the 19th day of the ongoing chariot-building effort that began on April 30 during Akshaya Tritiya.

Over 200 Artisans Drive Rath Construction​

This year, around 200 individuals, including 78 skilled ‘Maharana Sevaks’ (carpenter servitors), have been working diligently on the intricate task of crafting the chariots. Each year, this sacred duty is carried out with a blend of devotion, heritage, and craftsmanship that embodies the spiritual core of Jagannath culture.

Arabinda Padhee, Chief Administrative Officer of the SJTA, visited the 'Rath Khala' – the dedicated chariot construction yard near the Puri king’s palace – and praised the dedication of the artisans.

“One can see how the chariots are being made organically by many servitors and other stakeholders. This is literally the quintessential essence of the intangible heritage of the Jagannath culture,” Padhee remarked.

Bhaunri Festival Highlights Ritual Milestone​

The 'Bhaunri' festival, a significant ritual occasion, included the ceremonial fitting of 26 massive wooden wheels onto the three chariots using handcrafted wooden axles. This event also marks the conclusion of the Lord Jagannath’s ‘Chandan Yatra’ – a sandalwood-smeared ceremonial procession held annually.

Each of the three chariots is being built with meticulous care:

• Nandighosh for Lord Jagannath
• Taladwaja for Lord Balabhadra
• Darpadalana for Devi Subhadra

Chief carpenter Bijay Mohapatra, who is leading the construction of Lord Jagannath’s Nandighosh chariot, confirmed that the work is on schedule and proceeding well.

Security Measures in Place Ahead of Rath Yatra​

In anticipation of the annual Rath Yatra, scheduled for June 27, police authorities have already initiated security preparations to manage the massive influx of devotees and ensure a smooth and safe celebration.

The Rath Yatra remains one of India’s most iconic religious festivals, drawing millions of devotees from across the country and beyond to witness the divine journey of the deities on their majestic chariots through the streets of Puri.