Odisha CM Reviews Arrangements for Upcoming Rath Yatra

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday conducted a comprehensive review of the preparations for the annual Rath Yatra celebrations scheduled for July.

State Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan, State Chief Secretary Pradeep Kumar Jena, Director General of Police Arun Kumar Sarangi, and Director Intelligence Saumendra Priyadarsi provided a detailed briefing to CM Majhi. They discussed the arrangements and rituals for both the Snana Yatra and the Rath Yatra, ensuring all preparations for the smooth execution of these significant festivals are on track.

The Snana Yatra, also known as ‘Devasnana Purnima,’ marks the sacred bathing ritual of Lord Jagannath and his sibling deities. This ritual serves as a precursor to the grand Rath Yatra festival.

“The Chief Minister was thoroughly briefed about the procedures of the rituals and the extensive arrangements for the grand annual festival of Rath Yatra by Chief Secretary Jena, DGP Sarangi, and Director Intelligence Priyadarsi,” stated Minister Harichandan. “The government plans to hold meetings with the sevayats and other stakeholders in the coming days to ensure the smooth conduct of this year’s festival.”

Harichandan also addressed the issue of large crowds at the Jagannath Temple following the reopening of its four entrance gates. He noted that despite the influx of devotees due to consecutive holidays, no major incidents had been reported at the 12th-century shrine.

“We have seen a significant rush due to the holidays, but the arrangements at the shrine will soon be streamlined to manage the crowd efficiently,” assured Harichandan.