Puri Ratha Yatra Preparations Begin with First Timber Dispatch from Dasapalla

The sacred journey of the world‑famous Puri Ratha Yatra has officially begun with the dispatch of the first batch of timber from the Dasapalla forest area.

A total of 83 logs were ceremonially loaded onto three trucks after traditional rituals at Maa Badarauli’s shrine and Mahavir temple in Dasapalla.

This year, 865 logs are required for the construction of the three majestic chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra. With 47 logs remaining from last year, 818 fresh logs will be supplied.

The timber includes Asana and Dhaura varieties, cut into 12‑foot and 20‑foot lengths.

The rituals surrounding the dispatch mark the spiritual beginning of the grand festival. On Sri Panchami, three Dhaura logs will be worshipped at the Ratha Khala, followed by the commencement of chariot construction on Akshaya Tritiya.

The divine atmosphere in Dasapalla reflects the devotion and anticipation of millions awaiting the annual spectacle in Puri.