The timeless tradition of constructing the chariots for Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra has commenced on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya. In a feat of ancient engineering, these massive structures are built entirely without the use of modern machinery or even a single iron nail. The process began with a sacred ritual involving three gold-plated axes, marking the start of a 79-day journey of devotion and precision.

Adherence to Scriptural Traditions Around 230 traditional craftsmen, including carpenters, blacksmiths, and painters, are working tirelessly to complete the chariots by July 7. A total of 865 logs of sacred wood like Phasi and Dhaura are used. Interestingly, the artisans follow a strict lifestyle during this period, consuming only vegetarian food and avoiding even onion and garlic to maintain the sanctity of the construction site near the Shri Mandir.

A Marvel of Ancient Engineering The construction follows strict Vedic guidelines where the wheels are crafted first, followed by the main structure. By relying solely on manual tools and wooden joints instead of metal fasteners, the process showcases an extraordinary level of architectural skill passed down through generations. These chariots will be ready for the grand festival scheduled for July 16, drawing millions of devotees to witness the divine spectacle.

At a Glance

• Chariot construction started on April 19, marking the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya.
• No nails, machines, or modern cutters are used in the entire building process.
• 230 specialized artisans will complete the three chariots using 865 wooden logs over 79 days.
• The world-famous Rath Yatra is scheduled to take place on July 16, 2026.