Rath Yatra 2026 Preparations Begin in Puri with Sacred Wood Rituals
Puri: Preparations for the world-famous Rath Yatra 2026 of Lord Jagannath have officially commenced with the traditional wood procurement ritual.
A representative team from the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) travelled to Badamul in Nayagarh district to perform age-old ceremonies at the Bada Raula Thakurani temple, seeking divine permission before cutting the sacred wood required for the chariots.
Carrying garlands, coconuts, betel leaves, sindoor, lamps, and offerings, the delegation included Rath Tattvabadharak, Rath Amin Lakshman Mahapatra, and Bhoi Sardar Rabi Bhoi, symbolising the involvement of servitor communities in this centuries-old tradition.
According to SJTA, a total of 865 logs are needed annually for constructing the three majestic chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra.
With 47 logs remaining unused from last year, 818 new logs of asana, dhaura, and phasi varieties will be procured this year.
The collected wood will be sanctified on Saraswati Puja, while actual construction of the chariots will begin on Akshaya Tritiya, marking another milestone in the elaborate cycle of rituals.
The meticulous planning and adherence to tradition highlight the cultural depth of Rath Yatra, which draws millions of devotees to Puri every year.
