The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has planned for a illumination project to enhance the beauty of the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri even more. A technical team of the ASI on Tuesday toured the Srimandir and reviewed the detail arrangements for installing better light system in and around the main temple.
As per the plan, lights will be installed from the spire of the temple where the Neelachakra, the blue wheel is fixed, to the base of the shrine. This apart, the administration has also decided to brighten up each of the four doors of the temple with the help of lights.
Apart from being one of the biggest spiritual centres in the country, Srimandir is also a major tourist attraction. Lakhs of tourists from all across the globe throng the pilgrim town of Puri every year to witness its myriad colours of devotion and tourism.
Meanwhile, the construction of chariots of the deities for the upcoming Rath Yatra is in full swing. Even as the much-awaited annual car festival is set to commence from July 12, the carpenters have already started the installation of the Chari Nahaka, a whopping nine days ahead of the schedule.
As per the tradition, 'Chari Nahaka', the four pillar-frame which rises from the base of the chariot and supports its entire dome, is generally installed by the Bhoi and Maharana sevayats in each of the three chariot on Snana Purnima. This year, the Maharanas had begun the Chaka-Akha Dera, the fixation of the wheels and axle of the chariot two days in advance.
In view of the pandemic situation, the Odisha government has barred the celebration of the Rath Yatra outside the temple premises at all places in the State except Puri.
The major festival will be held in Puri just like last year in the absence of devotees on Bada Danda and with full Covid protocols in place as specified by the Supreme Court of India before the Rath Yatra in 2020.