The dismantling of the three chariots used in the Rath Yatra festival in Puri has begun today under the leadership of Bhoi Sardar, following a letter from the temple administration. The chariots were used for the world-famous Rath Yatra, which concluded this year after Mahaprabhu performed the Navadinavai Yatra.
Dismantling Process and Traditions
- Sequence of Dismantling: Work started with Devi Subhadra's Devdalana chariot, followed by Taladhwaja, and finally Nandighosha.
- Duration: Dismantling one chariot takes about 4 days; all three chariots dismantled within 10-12 days.
- Parts Handling: Components like throne, prabha, natgod, guj, and wheels stored in Gundicha temple for sale/auction; broken wood used for cooking kothabhoga.
Beliefs and Arrangements
- Iron Nails: Devotees collect iron nails from the chariots for a believed benefit of making fruitless trees bear fruit.
- Security: Strict security arrangements near chariots during dismantling by temple's Bhoisevaks.