Puri, June 26: The sacred Nabajouban Darshan of Lord Jagannath and His siblings commenced smoothly today, with rituals and ceremonies (niti-kanti) being performed precisely on schedule. Despite early morning downpours, the weather cleared just in time—an occurrence many devotees attributed to the divine grace of Mahaprabhu.
The darshan began 45 minutes ahead of the time mentioned in the finalized ritual calendar issued by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration. Chief Administrator Dr. Aravinda Padhee confirmed that all rituals are being conducted seamlessly by the dedicated team of temple servitors (sevayats).
As per tradition, the three grand chariots will be brought close to the Shrimandir on Thursday afternoon, following the receipt of the Lord’s divine command (ajnamala).
Dr. Padhee also informed that the pahandi bije, the ceremonial procession of the deities to their respective chariots will take place on Friday morning between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM. All concerned servitors are expected to participate and ensure the rituals are performed with punctuality and devotion.
In a show of cultural unity, the Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir and senior ministers from the Odisha Government are scheduled to attend the Rath Yatra festivities.
Meanwhile, focus has also shifted to the long-awaited renovation of the Ratna Bhandar (temple treasury). A high-level meeting was recently conducted with Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officials. According to temple sources, the internal restoration work is nearing completion. Plans are in place to replace nearly 90 stones from the outer chamber of the Ratna Bhandar, with repair work set to commence from June 28.
The ASI has assured full preparedness for the restoration, aiming for completion within a short timeframe. Enhancing the structural integrity and aesthetics, the doors of the outer Ratna Bhandar will be fitted with Burmese teak wood, adorned with a silver covering, as confirmed by Dr. Padhee.
Devotees and officials alike are optimistic that the upcoming Rath Yatra and the associated developments will unfold in a spiritually uplifting and well-organized manner.
