Rath Rolls On & So Does The Debate Over COVID Concern

Puri: The Supreme Court’s modified order to hold the Rath Yatra sans devotees has brought a sense of closure to the unprecedented controversy surrounding the world famous festival.

While some argue that it’s still dangerous to conduct the Car Festival amidst the fast growing coronavirus positive cases, devotees and traditionalists have hailed it as “miracle”, reaffirming their faith in Lord Jagannath.

Given the raging debate between the two sides, Odisha Bytes talked to some residents of Puri to gauge their mood and know which side of the divide they stood on.

Snehasis Dash, Medical Practitioner

“As a medical practitioner I think this is wrong from any direction you look at it and that’s not the end of it.  Things are going to get worse I am afraid. Although any unimaginable number of precautions we might take may fall short in effectiveness towards COVID-19, now that it’s happening we need to tread carefully from here on.”

Jitendra Mahapatra, National Executive, Aditya Vahini

“Till yesterday Rath Yatra was not happening and today it’s only a supernatural miracle that we are able to see our dear Lord Jagannath on our television sets keeping a safe distance and without violating any norms that could lead to the spread of coronavirus. I was in the Chattisa Nijog meeting that was also attended by the Law Minister and Shankaracharya, along with Gajapati Maharaj. Necessary precautions and safety arrangements were discussed. In the end I’d like to say it is commendable how the government managed to organise such a large-scale event overnight.”

Manoranjan Prusty, Doctor Of Homeopathy

“I can’t say much about it. On the one hand, I am getting to see Mahaprabhu this year and on the other it is a fact that there is a dangerous virus outbreak in the state. But, I believe the precautionary measures taken by the government should suffice and help us curb the virus.”

Sujit Gochhikar, Servitor On Duty

“This was God’s will and hence it was inevitable. There’s nothing to worry about, Lord Jagannath is going to keep all of us safe. performed my Pahandi duty, and I assure you, this Rath Yatra happened because of bGod’s grace and it is a sign that things are going to take a positive turn soon.”

Seamoon Panda, Student

“Is this really such a big issue to be discussed when people are dying of hunger and disease and students are dealing with stress of exams hanging in mid air? I don’t think so. Secondly, it’s a blatant abuse of religious rights, where all the other religions didn’t get to celebrate their festivals, I don’t think it is justified. Puri is going to be the next New York soon.”

Also Read: Rath Yatra Is A Celebration For Lord’s Entire Creation: Puri Gajapati

Also Read: Why Rath Yatra Celebration Is Not Just About Rituals Or Keeping A Tradition Alive?