Bhubaneswar, 15 July (H.S.): All religious rituals and preparations at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri are progressing smoothly as per the traditional schedule ahead of the world-famous Rath Yatra, said Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) Aravind Padhee on Wednesday.

Speaking after the completion of the Agyanmala Bije ritual in Puri, Padhee said the Nabajaubana Darshan held on Tuesday was successfully conducted and the rituals related to Utha Yatra are also progressing as planned.

He expressed confidence that the Pahandi Bije procession of the deities would commence between 9:00 am and 9:30 am on Thursday, marking the beginning of the grand chariot festival.

Addressing security and discipline on the chariots, the temple chief administrator said no unauthorised person would be allowed to climb onto the chariots. He also informed that the use of mobile phones on the chariots has been strictly prohibited to maintain the sanctity and safety of the rituals.

Padhee said all activities on the chariots would be videographed and strict action would be taken against anyone found violating the prescribed guidelines.

He further informed that Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi would visit Puri on Wednesday to inaugurate the Digital Hundi, an initiative aimed at providing modern facilities and convenience to devotees.

Extensive arrangements have been made for both VIPs and general devotees during the Rath Yatra. Padhee said the administration is fully prepared to ensure smooth darshan, adequate security and necessary facilities for all categories of pilgrims.

The SJTA Chief Administrator appealed to devotees to cooperate with the administration, follow official guidelines and participate in the sacred festival peacefully while maintaining discipline and order.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda