Puri, May 29: The Chaka Dera Anukula ritual, marking the beginning of wheel attachment to chariot axles for the upcoming Rath Yatra, was celebrated on Bada Danda during the Bhaunri festival on Wednesday.

The ceremony commenced with the arrival of the ‘agyan mala’ (garlands of consent from Lord Jagannath and His siblings) at Ratha Khala, delivered by puja panda servitors.

Following tradition, the ritual began with the chariot of Lord Balabhadra, Taladhwaja, before proceeding to the Chaka Dera Anukula rituals for the Nandighosa and Darpadalana chariots.

To date, Bhoi servitors have completed 16 out of the 42 wheels needed for the three chariots: Nandighosha, Taladhwaja, and Darpadalana. After the Chaka Dera ritual, the ‘Akha Sanjogikaran Karyakram’ will be conducted to fix all 42 wheels to their respective axles by Maharana and Bhoi servitors.

It is noteworthy that around 200 carpenters are involved in the construction of the chariots. Additionally, Bhoi servitors have been instructed to finish the Chari Nahaka construction ahead of the Suna Besha of the Trinity.

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