Odisha Latest News / Rukuna Rath Yatra Halted Midway In Bhubaneswar Due To Adverse Weather, Chariot Veers Off Route
·1 week ago·2 min read
Key Points
The Rukuna Rath Yatra of Lord Lingaraj was halted near Badhei Banka square after the chariot veered off its designated route amid heavy rain and gusty winds from a Nor'wester.
Bhubaneswar, Mar 26: The annual Rukuna Rath Yatra of Lord Lingaraj witnessed an unexpected halt on Thursday, as the grand chariot procession was stopped midway due to adverse weather conditions.
Chariot Halted Near Badhei Banka
According to our source from the ground, the Rukuna Rath came to a halt near Badhei Banka square in Bhubaneswar, forcing organisers to call off the pulling ritual for the day.
Despite heavy rainfall and strong gusty winds triggered by a Nor’wester (Kalbaisakhi), devotees continued pulling the chariot with unwavering enthusiasm and devotion.
Chariot Veers Off Path Amid Storm
The situation turned tense when the massive wooden chariot veered off its designated route during the procession. It reportedly climbed onto a roadside drain, leading to a temporary loss of control.
In the process, the chariot slightly brushed against nearby houses, triggering panic among local residents. However, no major injuries or significant damage have been reported.
Authorities Step In, Ritual Suspended
Authorities and local volunteers swiftly intervened to manage the situation and ensure public safety. Given the challenging weather and the chariot’s position, officials decided to suspend the pulling ritual for the day.
Procession to Resume Friday
The chariot will remain stationed at Badhei Banka square and the pulling is scheduled to resume between 2 pm and 2:30 pm on Friday, once weather conditions improve and necessary arrangements are made to realign the chariot.
Also Read: Barabati Stadium in Cuttack to Host India-Sri Lanka Second T20I On December 24
The source further indicated that the procession had initially been delayed due to late completion of rituals associated with Lord Lingaraj.
One of Bhubaneswar’s Major Festivals
The Rukuna Rath Yatra, held on the occasion of Ashokashtami, is one of Bhubaneswar’s main festivals, drawing thousands of devotees every year and holding deep religious significance in the region.
Chariot Halted Near Badhei Banka
According to our source from the ground, the Rukuna Rath came to a halt near Badhei Banka square in Bhubaneswar, forcing organisers to call off the pulling ritual for the day.
Despite heavy rainfall and strong gusty winds triggered by a Nor’wester (Kalbaisakhi), devotees continued pulling the chariot with unwavering enthusiasm and devotion.
Chariot Veers Off Path Amid Storm
The situation turned tense when the massive wooden chariot veered off its designated route during the procession. It reportedly climbed onto a roadside drain, leading to a temporary loss of control.
In the process, the chariot slightly brushed against nearby houses, triggering panic among local residents. However, no major injuries or significant damage have been reported.
Authorities Step In, Ritual Suspended
Authorities and local volunteers swiftly intervened to manage the situation and ensure public safety. Given the challenging weather and the chariot’s position, officials decided to suspend the pulling ritual for the day.
Procession to Resume Friday
The chariot will remain stationed at Badhei Banka square and the pulling is scheduled to resume between 2 pm and 2:30 pm on Friday, once weather conditions improve and necessary arrangements are made to realign the chariot.
Also Read: Barabati Stadium in Cuttack to Host India-Sri Lanka Second T20I On December 24
The source further indicated that the procession had initially been delayed due to late completion of rituals associated with Lord Lingaraj.
One of Bhubaneswar’s Major Festivals
The Rukuna Rath Yatra, held on the occasion of Ashokashtami, is one of Bhubaneswar’s main festivals, drawing thousands of devotees every year and holding deep religious significance in the region.
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