23-06-2025
For first time, wooden chariot to be used in Rath Yatra this year
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Nagpur: For the first time a fully custom-crafted wooden chariot based on the famous Puri-style
Jagannath
Rath will be used for Rath Yatra to be held at Shri Jagannath Mandir in Rameshwari on June 27.
The sacred spirit of Jagannath devotion is set to come alive as the Odia Samaj Nagpur gears up for a grand celebration of the festival from June 26 to July 8, promising a rich blend of tradition, devotion, and cultural vibrancy.
This year's celebration carries a special significance, as for the first time, the revered deities — Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra — will ride a completely wooden chariot, inspired by the iconic 'Rath' of Puri, Odisha.
"This chariot is a labour of love and tradition, entirely made of wood, reflecting the grandeur of the original design," said Bhabani Prasad Mishra, president of Odia Samaj, addressing a press conference.
General secretary Ganesh Das added, "The spiritual journey will commence on June 26 with the Netroutsav or Nava Youvana Darshan, symbolising the rejuvenated appearance of Lord Jagannath after 14 days of ritual seclusion during 'anasara'."
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On June 27, following the ceremonial 'Pahandi Bije', the Ratha Yatra will begin at 11.30am from Shri Jagannath Mandir, Rameshwari. The wooden chariot will traverse the surrounding localities and return to the temple premises, where mahaprasad will be graciously served to devotees.
Adding devotional depth, the ISKCON Kirtan Mandali will accompany the procession with soul-stirring chants. As dusk settles, a majestic maha aarti will be held at 7pm, followed by a spirited live performance by Aaraadhya Dhol Tasha Dhwaj Pathak.
The celebration will continue with sacred rituals such as Hera Panchami (July 1), Bahuda Yatra (July 5), Suna Besh (Golden Attire) on July 6, and culminate with Niladri Bije on July 8. Supplementing the rituals, a vibrant cultural calendar will feature traditional dances, devotional songs, and a captivating 'nrityanatika' by the Samaj's ladies wing, dramatising the divine tale of Mata Laxmi's Contravention.
With over 5,000 devotees expected to participate, elaborate arrangements have been made to ensure the spiritual fulfilment and comfort of all attendees.
Also present in the press conference were Odia Samaj vice-president BB Panda, cultural head Chinmay Patra, puja committee head Akshay Kumar Nayak, and mahaprasad incharge Prabhat Barik.
