Bhubaneswar, July 7: Continuing its long tradition of serving devotees during the auspicious Rath Yatra at Puri, Jindal Foundation, the social arm of Jindal Steel served over two millions meals to the devotees during the grand festival. From Nabajouban Darshan on June 26, the Foundation provided freshly cooked traditional Odia meals daily for 11 days, until the day of Suna Besha on July 06.
To reach as many pilgrims as possible, the foundation established two large-scale food distribution stalls at strategic locations—near Puri Railway Station and the bus stand adjacent to Gundicha Temple. These stalls offered a traditional Odia meal consisting of rice, dalma (a wholesome lentil and vegetable preparation), and khata (a sweet and tangy chutney), chosen both for its cultural relevance and nutritional benefits.
Prepared under strict hygiene standards, the meals were served with deep reverence, in alignment with the spiritual significance of the festival. A dedicated team of over 160 volunteers and staff worked tirelessly in shifts to manage the massive operation—handling cooking, transport, and distribution with efficiency and devotion.
Dr. Sambit Patra, the Member of Parliament (Puri), inaugurated the stall at the bus stand. The stall near Puri Railway Station was inaugurated by ADRM D.K. Behera in the presence of senior SDM Anil Kumar and other senior railway officials.
Shallu Jindal, Chairperson of Jindal Foundation, reflected on the Foundation’s long-standing commitment said, “It has been our humble effort for the past 11 years to ensure that no devotee remains hungry during the Rath Yatra. We feel blessed to serve in this sacred celebration of devotion and unity.”
Inspired by the vision of Naveen Jindal, Chairman of Jindal Steel & Power, the foundation began its Rath Yatra seva journey in in 2015 and has consistently scaled up its efforts each year.
Beyond food distribution, the foundation extended additional support to the devotees and frontline workers including distribution of 10,000 ORS sachets among the devotees and 600 raincoats among on-ground personnel supporting the district administration. Three refrigerated water tankers, each with a 1,000-litre capacity, were deployed to ensure access to clean drinking water. The Foundation also handed over 50 bio-toilets to the administration for public use, enhancing sanitation during the grand festival. Vide a special communication, the district administration of Puri has deeply appreciated the food distribution service and other supports by Jindal Foundation.
