Puri, May 5: The chariot construction yard at Shrikshetra has come alive with intensified activity ahead of the annual Rath Yatra. Preparations have picked up pace as the crucial axle work for the three chariots began on Monday with traditional rituals.
The auspicious axle crafting ceremony was conducted in the afternoon after offering sacred garlands and Mahardha to Lord Jagannath. Following the rituals, chief Vishwakarma servitors initiated the process of shaping the axles using Dhaura wood. Artisans are meticulously rounding and refining both ends of the axles, while parallel work on wheel construction is also underway.
According to Bhoi Sardar Ravi Bhoi, by evening, 17 wheel rims (Singada) for the three chariots had been completed. The ceremonial fitting of Paita, a circular ring placed at the centre of the wheel hub, is in progress. Crafted with precision, the Paita not only strengthens the structure but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the wheels.
Construction of the main and secondary wheels is nearing completion. Following the rim binding process, fitting of iron clamps (Pandari) and rings (Bala) is currently underway. Using traditional methods like Bilei Badia, wheel work for all three chariots is progressing simultaneously. Meanwhile, sculptor servitors are engaged in carving Nrusingha (Narasimha) figures on wooden blocks for each chariot.
Work on the Taladhwaja chariot has also advanced, with preparations of the throne structure (Singhasana) and decorative elements such as Apsara and Paricha already in progress. Components like Salaguj, Tikhaguj and Jalayantra are being crafted by carpenters, while sculptors are busy shaping intricate lion and mythical motifs.
Blacksmith servitors are supplying essential iron materials including spikes, clamps and rings required for wheel assembly. Using the Singada Badia method, structural components are being assembled and transported to the yard by Bhoi servitors, with eight such units delivered on the day.
Overall, the construction of the three chariots is progressing steadily with coordinated efforts from various servitor groups, maintaining traditional practices and timelines.
