Puri: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) on Friday began the process of dismantling the three iconic chariots which carried the sibling deities during the Rath Yatra in Odisha’s Puri town.
The three gigantic chariots – Nandighosa, Taladhwaja, and Darpadalana – which had been parked in front of the Singhadwar of the 12th century shrine since Rath Yatra are being dismantled on Friday amid tight security arrangements.
The process began with Devi Subhadra’s chariot, Darpadalana, and will continue with Lord Balabhadra’s Taladhwaja and Lord Jagannath’s Nandighosa.
Unlike the construction phase, which starts from the base, the dismantling begins from the top, involving the removal of sacred components such as the kalash, olta sua, khapuri parabadhi, and potala. Prior to this, symbolic elements like the horses, charioteers, and parshwa deva-devis were respectfully detached from the chariot structure.
The entire operation is being carried out under tight security, with a dedicated storage facility prepared to house the dismantled parts. The Bhoi servitors are expected to complete the process within 15 to 20 days. SJTA has ensured that all safety and ritual protocols are being followed meticulously to preserve the sanctity of the tradition.
This annual ritual not only marks the conclusion of the Rath Yatra festivities but also reflects the cyclical nature of devotion and craftsmanship embedded in Odisha’s cultural heritage.
Officials said a permanent godown has been constructed at Masani Chandi Sahi to store the dismantled chariots. The modern godown is equipped with the latest technology.
Security forces have been deployed around the site to prevent any untoward incident as massive wooden structures are being taken down.