Rule says Raths should not move after sunset

In deviation from custom and tradition of the Shreemandira, it has been seen all these years that the chariots are moving after the sunset.

Notwithstanding a diktat inscribed in the rulebook of the RathYatra, the cars are made to roll on at night.

The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) seems unbothered about a breach of the “niti” (ritual).

To gloss over its own faults, while the Babus allegedly allow it to take place, there is a credit gaining mindset that they made possible the timely reach of the chariots.  Of course, by making chariots reach the same day, the administration earns kudos from the Government and the public as well.

The State Government has not yet shown an iota of eagerness to it, let alone take action on the erring officials. Here is a fresh example when the chariot of Lord Jagannath moved after sunset during the Dhakhinimoda (turn chariot to south) festival.

The chariot proceeded after 7 pm on Sharadhabali amidst presence of temple officials, which clearly breaches the law of RathYatra. Now suspense is brewing over Bahuda Yatra on Sunday, a day before Sunabesha of the Trinity. Question is, will a blunder repeat again in the return ceremony?

The plea administration cites is unless all the chariots reach the Lions’ Gate on the Bahuda day, it would lead to immense pressure on them in view of a huge crowd management on the Sunabesha.

Since footfalls during the Sunabesha have crossed one million in the past, the administration has no option but to allow rolling of cars at night, said an official under condition of anonymity.

He added the preparation for the Sunabesha is a big task, which needs 24 hours to complete the barricading works and build all other amenities to face a sea of people on the Badadanda. Hence, it is necessary to bring the three chariots back to the Lions Gate, he told.

Nearly a decade and a half since, the gathering in Sunabesha have crossed one million, which is more than Shreegundicha and Bahuda crowd. Earlier, a few people from local areas were reaching to Puri to view Sunabesha, when the three deities are loaded with ornaments of diamond, gold, silver, besides invaluable jewels and stones on their bodies seated on three well decorated chariots near the Lions’ Gate.

Notably, there was strong commitment on behalf of the State Government to practice every ritual of the Lords with utmost honesty and sanctity when Gajapati Maharaja of Puri handed over the shrine in early 1960s. The State made an agreement with the Gajapti to abide by the principles and rituals of Lord Jagannath and His siblings in the temple.