Nayagarh, June 26: Excitement is palpable among the villagers of Satapatna, nestled in Daspalla Tehsil of Nayagarh district in Odisha, as they prepare for their inaugural Rath Yatra this July. The village, known as a bustling commercial hub in the tehsil, recently established a temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, marking a significant milestone in its religious landscape.
In anticipation of the upcoming Rath Yatra, preparations are in full swing. Three intricately crafted chariots are currently under construction, supported financially by the temple managing committee and generous patrons from the community. The journey of these chariots will symbolize the annual sojourn to the Gundicha temple, a revered tradition during Rath Yatra festivals.
The process began auspiciously earlier this year during Saraswati Puja, with the ceremonial chopping of holy wood (Daru) by Bhoi servitors, following special worship rituals conducted by Brahmins. Subsequently, on Akshaya Tritiya, the construction of the chariots commenced under the guidance of Maharana servitors.
As of now, the construction has progressed up to the 'Singhasana parabhadi' stage. The final touches, including painting and adornment with 'Sarathi' (chariot drivers), 'Aswa' (horses), Parswa Devadevis, cloth, polythene, and jambura decorations, will be completed by the 'Rupakar' servitors before the upcoming no-moon day of the 'Asadha' month.
During the nine-day festivities in Satapatna village, cultural programs, bhajan concerts, and the traditional 'Anna Byanjana' feast will complement the religious fervor. The Bahuda Yatra day will culminate with the offering of 'Nabaratna Chhenapodha' to the deities, marking the conclusion of this joyous celebration deeply rooted in Odisha's rich cultural heritage.