Ranchi, July 14: The city is putting on its festive colours as preparations gather pace for the 335th Rath Yatra on July 16. From towering chariots and freshly painted temples to bustling fairgrounds and giant carnival rides, the city is witnessing a remarkable transformation ahead of the 10-day celebration expected to draw nearly 10 lakh devotees from across Jharkhand.
Final touches are being given to the towering 40-foot, eight-wheeled wooden chariot that will carry Lord Jagannath in keeping with centuries-old traditions followed in Puri.
Skilled artisans from Puri, assisted by local craftsmen, are meticulously refurbishing the chariot that was built in 2022 using sal, jamun and mango wood.
Earlier, the Mahasnan ritual was performed with 153 pitchers of water before the deities entered their customary 15-day period of seclusion.
Workers race against time to install giant wheels, pirate ships, carousels and other amusement rides that will entertain thousands during the 10-day fair.
A kilometre-long stretch between Jagannath Mandir and Mausi Bari is rapidly filling with food stalls, food trucks and colourful marketplace attractions.
Nearly 1,500 vendors are setting up shops as demand for commercial space pushes fairground rates to record levels this year.
The Jagannathpur Mandir Nyas Samiti has earned a record Rs 2.25 crore from the fair contract, a sharp jump from Rs 51 lakh last year.
Fresh plaster, paint and finishing work have given Mausi Bari, or Gundicha Temple, a renewed appearance ahead of Lord Jagannath’s ceremonial visit.
Preparations are also underway for Dashmi rituals, when Ganj Bhog of khichdi, kheer and vegetables will be ceremonially prepared before the Lord’s return.
Security preparations have intensified with CCTV cameras, barricades, dedicated entry and exit routes and contingency plans for rain and heavy crowds.
Devotees eagerly await the sacred journey when Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra travel to Mausi Bari, recreating rituals observed for over three centuries.
Multiple government departments are working in coordination to ensure uninterrupted power supply, efficient crowd management and a safe pilgrimage experience for devotees.
The festival preserves unique traditions, including Goddess Laxmi’s symbolic visit to the chariot before the divine reunion during the return journey.
The return procession, popularly known as Ghurti or Bahuda Rath Yatra, will mark the conclusion of another grand chapter in Ranchi’s enduring tradition.
