Bhaunri Yatra in Puri today

Puri, May 29: Amidst the reverent chants of "Jai Jagannath" and "Hari Bola," the eagerly anticipated ritual of Chaka-Akha Dera unfolded on the bustling Bada Danda (Grand Road), witnessed by servitors.

The commencement of the ritual followed the arrival of the sacred 'Agyan malas'—divine garlands signifying consent—from Lord Jagannath and his esteemed siblings.

As per age-old tradition, the Chaka-Akha Dera ritual, symbolizing the affixing of two wheels and an axle to each chariot of Lord Balabhadra, Jagannath, and Devi Subhadra, took place on the auspicious occasion of Bhaunri Yatra, marking the culmination of the Bahara Chandan Yatra of the deities. 

Following the conclusion of the Bahara Chandan Jatra, the remaining 21 days of the Bhitara Chandan Jatra will unfold within the hallowed confines of the Shree Jagannath Temple.

On this propitious day, the pivotal components of the chariots—the central wheel and axle system known as Nahaka Chaka and Nahaka Akha—were meticulously affixed, serving as the cornerstone for the subsequent construction phases of the chariots.

Of the total 42 wheels required for all three chariots, a significant milestone has been reached with the completion of 20 wheels. In adherence to the ritual, three Puja Pandas ceremoniously parade with three distinct Agyan Malas from each deity, leading a procession to the Ratha Khala with grandeur. Subsequently, the Maharana servitors commence the intricate installation of the wheel and axle, marking the beginning of a phased installation process for the remaining wheels and axles.