Puri: On the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, the customary Ratha Anukula ritual was performed at the chariot construction yard marking the beginning of the construction of chariots for the annual Rath Yatra.
The three logs of wood were worshipped at the Ratha Khala after receiving divine permission from Lord Jagannath. As per tradition, senior servitors symbolically touch the three logs with gold and silver axes to begin the process for the annual Rath Yatra.
After the Saree Bandha ritual, tying of on the heads of servitors at the service of Lord Jagannath, Bhoi and Maharana servitors along with other segments of sevayats will start the construction work from tomorrow.
The day-long rituals began with Mangala Alati early in the day followed by a set of nitees as per the Jagannath temple tradition.
Elaborate security arrangements have been made for the ritual which was also open for public after a two-year COVID-19 break. Devotees witnessing the ritual said they feel blessed and their soul purified.
