Puri: Preparations for the annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath formally commenced on Friday with the observance of Adya Parva, the inaugural ritual for the grand festival in Puri.
On the auspicious occasion of Shree Panchami Tithi, the traditional Aavahan (invocation) of Goddess Saraswati was performed, followed by the Anukula Puja for the construction of the three sacred chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.
The Anukula Puja was held in front of the office of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) in accordance with traditional rituals. The ceremony signifies the ceremonial approval to begin the chariot-making process for the annual Rath Yatra.
The ritual was attended by SJTA Chief Administrator Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Puri District Collector Dibya Jyoti Parida, Superintendent of Police Prateek Singh, senior officials, SJTA employees, and servitors traditionally associated with chariot construction.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Padhee sought the blessings of Mahaprabhu Lord Jagannath for the smooth and successful conduct of Rath Yatra 2026. He also expressed confidence that with the collective cooperation of the temple administration, district authorities, servitors and devotees, the festival would be conducted peacefully and in accordance with tradition.
With the completion of Adya Parva and Anukula Puja, preparations for the iconic annual chariot festival have officially begun in the holy town of Puri.
