Angul (Odisha): Thousands turned up at Devboomi in Angul’s Jindal Nagar on Thursday to take part in the annual Rath Yatra.
Jindal Steel Chairman Naveen Jindal, as the prime servitor, led the spiritual journey as he joined the community to pull the sacred chariots.
Accompanied by his mother Savitri Jindal and wife Shallu Jindal, Chairperson of Jindal Foundation, Naveen performed ‘Chhera Pahanra, the traditional rit
ual sweeping of the path in front of the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.
“I pray to Lord Jagannath to bless everyone with good health, happiness and prosperity. It is a privilege to join devotees in pulling the sacred chariots and seeking the blessings of the Lord. On behalf of the Jindal family, I wish everyone a happy and blessed Rath Yatra,” Naveen said.
Jindal Foundation, the social arm of Jindal Steel, initiated its signature Anna Seva programme in Puri for the 12th consecutive year. Over 11 days, from July 15 through July 25, this philanthropic initiative distributes hundreds of thousands of freshly-prepared meals to pilgrims.
To ensure maximum reach, the Foundation operates three dedicated live kitchen distribution hubs strategically positioned near the Shri Gundicha Temple Bus Stand, Puri railway station square and Station Road.
These centres work round the clock to serve wholesome, traditional Odia cuisine consisting of rice, dalma and khata, all prepared under stringent food safety and hygiene guidelines.