TPuri, May 22: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has announced enhanced security measures for the upcoming Rath Yatra in Puri, ensuring the deities' safety and their chariots. These precautions have been implemented in response to last year’s incident, when Lord Balabhadra's idol slipped and fell during the pahandi procession outside the Gundicha temple.
To prevent any such mishaps this year, a senior officer, accompanied by a guard, will inspect the charmal after it is tied. The Jagannath Temple Police (JTP) and Bhoi servitors will assist in this inspection to ensure everything is secure, said Chief Administrator of SJTA, Arabinda Padhee, following a meeting of the Chhatisha Nijog.
The meeting, held at Bhakta Nivas, also finalized the rituals and rites for the Rath Yatra. According to the approved schedule, the Srigundicha Yatra will take place on June 2. The chariot consecration ceremony is set for 9 am, followed by Pahandi Bije from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm. The deities,Sri madanmohan, Sriram, and Srikrishna will enter the chariots between 12:30 pm and 1 pm. The Chhera Pahanra ritual will occur from 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm, and the chariot pulling will begin at 4 pm.
On July 1, during Heera Panchami, the Mahalakshmi Rath Tala Niti will be performed at 9:30 pm, and Jagmohan will be worshipped. Special arrangements have been made for devotees, who can purchase tickets for Rs 150 to witness the Pahandi ritual up to the Snana Mandap on Snana Purnima.
