The construction of Chariots at Puri Begins
The construction of Chariots at Puri Begins
During the celebration of Akhaya Trutiya (The festival of farmers), the ‘Chandan Yatra’ and construction of Chariots has begun with much enthusiasm and devotees gathered to witness and enjoy the spot of Lord ‘Chandan Yatra’ (play on the Boats).
On the 15th may (Akhaya Trutiya day), the deities, Lords Jagnnath, Shiva Madan Mohan and Goddess Lakshmi move around the Temple by sitting within a palanquin in a grand procession. Along with them, Lords Shri Loknath, Shri Markandeya, Shri Jameswar, Shri Nilakantheswar, Shri Kapala Mahadev and Panchu Pandavas join the procession which goes from Shri Jagannath Temple to Narendra Puskarini (pond) through ‘Bada Danda’. Then after the sevayats (Hekpers) finish the rituals of worshipping, ‘Chapa Khela’ belongs. Thousands of devotees gather to observe this unique play.
After the carpenters receive the ‘Ajna Mallya’, the construction of Chariots of Lords Jagnnath, Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra began on that day. From the next day, the regular construction of chariots begins vigorously. The skilled carpenters involved in the whole process marked as Orissa’s most able construction workers.
