Puri, Ap 25: This year, the temple received a good supply of wood for the chariot construction. Out of 22 large logs brought to the site, 15 reached the main chariot assembly area, and 42 smaller wooden pieces were prepared from 14 of these logs. One large log remains in the storage yard, while artisans have already used 42 smaller logs to equip three chariot frames.

Master craftsman Vishwakarma is overseeing the assembly of the chariot.

Preparations are progressing smoothly over the next seven days to ensure the wood is ready for assembly. After being summoned by Vishwakarma, the chief assistants known as Bhaipuas have joined the construction work. These assistants are trained collaborators, selected after passing rigorous trials and examinations.

Currently, the first phase of chariot construction is underway in the assembly yard. The chariot will feature large and small wheels, along with main support structures, all of which have been cut and prepared. Out of the 42 wheels needed for the three chariots, 26 have already been shaped and readied. Once the wheels are aligned and fitted with ropes, the chariots will be ready for the next stage.

From the carpentry section, the prepared wood will be transported to the chariot assembly area. At a temporary workshop in Dolabedi, artisans are crafting additional wheel spokes and iron fittings. Each wheel requires 32 spokes, which are carefully shaped and fixed with precise angles for durability.

As of Friday, the project has involved 37 master Vishwakarma artisans, 19 Bhaipua assistants, 4 carpentry workers, six blacksmiths, and several chariot yard helpers, totaling 67 people dedicated to the construction. Temple administration official Jitendra Mohanty confirmed that the work is progressing according to schedule, ensuring that the chariots will be ready for the upcoming festival.