Puri/Cuttack: The cutting of logs for construction of the three chariots for the annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Odisha’s puri town began at Cuttack on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami on Sunday.
This sacred process commenced after the wood was blessed with an Agyan Mala brought in from the Shree Jagannath temple in Puri, ensuring the ritualistic sanctity of the event.
The initial phase involved the sawing of three pieces of wood, which will be followed by further stages to complete the chariots. Chief Administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) Arabinda Padhee was present on the occasion along with other senior officials.
They were joined by the head carpenter (Maharana) who played a vital role in overseeing the ceremonious proceedings, ensuring that all traditional practices were meticulously followed.
The preparation for this year’s Rath Yatra has started. Logs meant for the chariot making are usually worshipped on Basant Panchami and their Chirata rituals are performed on Ram Navami.
“As per the traditions, sawing is carried out in the sawmill at Khapuria in Cuttack every year. The process of making the chariots will begin on Akshaya Tritiya,” Padhee said.
It may be noted that the authorities have acquired 101 of 865 required wood pieces as of March 2025, with plans to complete chariot construction by June 11 (Snana Purnima).
As per the long-followed tradition, the timber logs will be sliced till all the specified numbers of pieces are prepared for commencement of the construction works of the chariots from the day of Akshay Tritiya.
The construction of the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra takes place near the royal palace of the Jagannath Temple in Puri.
As per sources, 812 pieces of logs are required for the construction of three chariots for Lord Jagannath and his siblings.
