Bhubaneswar, March 27: The construction of the sacred chariots for Lord Jagannath’s iconic Rath Yatra in Puri commenced on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami, marking a key milestone in the preparations for the grand festival. The event, imbued with traditional fervor, saw the first cutting of timber on Friday as part of the time-honored rituals leading up to the annual procession.
In keeping with age-old customs, the timber cutting began with the arrival of the revered ‘Agnya Mala’—a garland symbolizing divine permission from Lord Jagannath. This ritual is considered sacred, signifying Lord Jagannath's formal approval to proceed with the chariot construction.
Following the completion of the Vedic rituals and other traditional ceremonies, timber cutting officially began at the Khapuria Government Timber Mill in Cuttack. In this first phase, three logs of ‘Dhaura’ wood, each approximately 12 feet in length, were carefully cut. These logs are integral to the construction of different parts of the chariots. In the days to come, additional timber will be processed in a methodical, phased manner, adhering strictly to prescribed rituals and traditional craftsmanship.
The event was attended by prominent officials and servitors from the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), including Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee, Rath Maharana, and other temple functionaries. Their presence ensured that each step of the process was in alignment with both religious traditions and administrative protocols.
This ceremonial commencement marks the beginning of the intricate and sacred task of constructing the three grand chariots for Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra. The chariot-building process, known for its spiritual significance and attention to detail, is carried out by skilled artisans who follow centuries-old traditions passed down through generations.
The initiation of timber cutting not only marks the start of the preparations for the world-renowned Rath Yatra but also highlights the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Odisha. The festival draws devotees and visitors from across the world, eager to witness the magnificence of this time-honored celebration.
