Jagannath Temple in Odisha to remain closed for devotees till 15 May
Premium- Focus will be given on the vaccination of those involved in daily rituals at the shrine and those engaged in the construction of chariots for the Ratha Yatra
PURI : The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) today decided to stop the entry of devotees into the Jagannath Temple shrine till 15 May.
However, the daily rituals of the trinity- Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and Lord Jagannath - will continue with help of servitors and temple officials, SJTA chief administrator Krishan Kumar said after chairing a meeting attended by representatives of temple servitors, the Puri district collector and superintendent of police, and other stakeholders.
TRENDING STORIESSee All
Premium Haryana imposes COVID curbs in 6 worst-affected districts. Details here
2 min read . 24 Apr 2021Premium Haryana imposes COVID curbs in 6 worst-affected districts. Details here
2 min read . 24 Apr 2021
Premium When should you get the second dose of Covaxin/Covishield - things to know
1 min read . 24 Apr 2021Premium When should you get the second dose of Covaxin/Covishield - things to know
1 min read . 24 Apr 2021It was also decided that all preparations for the construction of chariots will continue as per traditions.
The SJTA will take steps for procurement of masks and sanitisers for use during Chandan (sandalwood) Yatra, Snan (bathing) Yatra, and Ratha Yatra.
The annual Ratha Yatra falls on July 12 this year.
"The grave challenge posed by COVID-19 was discussed in detail. All were of the unanimous view that necessary steps must be taken to ensure continuity of the Niti-Kanti (rituals) of Mahaprabhu Shree Jagannath," Kumar said.
A decision was also taken to carry out regular screening and testing on families of servitors and temple officials.
MORE FROM THIS SECTIONSee All
The rituals related to the Ratha Yatra will begin from Akashya Tritiya (May 15).
A COVID-19 Care Centre at Neelachal Yatri Niwas will be strengthened as per requirement, he said.
Arrangements will also be made for shifting serious patients to SUM and other hospitals in Bhubaneswar.
The temple administrator (development) will act as the Nodal Officer, an official note said.
Focus will be given on the vaccination of those involved in daily rituals at the shrine and those engaged in the construction of chariots for the Ratha Yatra.
The meeting also resolved that the awareness programme will continue on the use of face masks, sanitisation and hand washing, and the need for maintaining social distancing.
Click here to read the Mint ePaperMint is now on Telegram. Join Mint channel in your Telegram and stay updated with the latest business news.