Puri, May 4: The construction of the chariot wheels for the Bhauṛi festival is underway. According to sources, the wheels are being prepared at the Chaka Akha Dera site, with meticulous attention to traditional craftsmanship.

On Sunday, two wheels were aligned and joined with the Singda (16-point central hub) under the supervision of master craftspeople. Volunteers, guided by chief artisan Vishwakarma, are carefully assembling the wheel components using time-honored techniques. Wooden spokes are precisely fitted, bound, and secured with kalasa (binding process) to ensure the stability of the chariot wheels.

Each wheel requires four central hubs (pahi), each connected to 16 outer spokes, which are reinforced and fitted with joy-enhancing decorations called khusi ar. The artisans measure and cut the wood with exact precision, ensuring proper alignment for assembly.

At the workshop, preparations are ongoing with multiple teams working simultaneously:

· Wheel assembly and binding

· Chariot frame construction

· Carving of decorative motifs, including lions and cats

· Metal fittings

Skilled Vishwakarmas supervise every stage, giving instructions for size adjustments and proper fitting. For each wheel, eight volunteers and four master artisans collaborate, with four volunteers rotating between wheel assembly and rotation tasks.

The process remains deeply rooted in tradition, with every step-from measuring, cutting, and assembling wooden parts to the final binding carried out with ceremonial precision. The preparation of the chariot wheels is expected to be completed in time for the festival, symbolizing both devotion and the continuation of a centuries-old craft.