Puri, Ap 17: The holy festival of Akshaya Tritiya will be observed on April 20 this year, and preparations are in full swing at the sacred town of Puri. The auspicious occasion will mark the beginning of the construction of the Lord Jagannath Chariot.
Additionally, the Chandan Yatra, a 21-day event, will also commence at Narendra pond, featuring Lord Jagannath’s procession with the ceremonial chandan (sandalwood) paste. Authorities are ensuring heightened security as devotees and visitors are expected to gather in large numbers. Puri Police Superintendent Prateek Singh recently visited Narendra pond to review all arrangements.
During Chandan Yatra, the moving idols of Lord Madanmohan, Bhudevi, Shridevi, and the Pancha Pandava will participate in water sports at Nanda and Bhadra Dui Chap boat. Preparations for the event are in advanced stages, and intricate artwork for the chandan chaka (sandalwood platform) is being created by skilled artisans.
On Akshaya Tritiya, Lord Jagannath will arrive from the temple to Narendra pond to officially inaugurate the festivities. Devotees and temple servants have shown great enthusiasm in anticipation of witnessing this sacred procession.
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The Rath construction is also progressing steadily. Three raths will be built according to tradition, with ceremonial worship of the wood and the start of construction by master carpenters. All required materials have been prepared, and artisans will work meticulously until the completion of the chariots for the festival season.
Security arrangements have been significantly reinforced. Alongside SP Prateek Singh, senior police officers will deploy 5 platoons, including 5 additional DSPs, 8 inspectors, and 20 ASIs/SIs. Special arrangements have been made for women, children, and senior citizens. CCTV surveillance will cover the entire area, and suspicious individuals will be monitored closely. Anti-sabotage measures will also be strictly enforced, especially in light of a tragic incident during the 2024 Chandan Yatra involving a firecracker explosion.
All necessary chariot wood has been brought to Puri in phases, and the construction will proceed in stages with utmost dedication and adherence to tradition.
