Puri, May 19: The sacred land of Shreekhetra witnessed the commencement of a significant ritual today as the Chaka-Akha Dera Niti was performed, a traditional milestone in the construction of the three grand chariots for the annual Rath Yatra.

Following age-old customs, the Agyan Mala has been ceremonially offered to the 'Rath Khala' (chariot-making yard) signifying divine approval for the construction process.

As per tradition, the Chaka-Akha Dera ritual means the fixing of two wheels and an axle of each chariot of Lord Balabhadra, Jagannath, and Devi Subhadra is conducted on the occasion of Bhaunri Jatra, the last day of the Bahara Chandan Yatra of the deities. After the conclusion of the Bahara Chandan Jatra, the remaining 21 days of the Bhitara Chandan Jatra will be completed inside the premises of Shree Jagannath Temple.

This ancient tradition is revered by devotees, marking a crucial phase in the preparation for the world-famous Rath Yatra.

Meanwhile, with lakhs of devotees expected to visit the pilgrimage site, special arrangements have been made to manage the crowd efficiently and uphold the sanctity of the event.

As Puri gears up for the grand Rath Yatra, the fervor among devotees continues to rise, bringing alive the rich heritage and spiritual significance of this centuries-old tradition.

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