Tailor servitors work round the clock to prepare Rath Yatra chariot canopies in Puri
Jul 11, 2026
Puri (Odisha) [India], July 11 : Tailor servitors in Puri are working round the clock to prepare the colourful canopy coverings for the three chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra ahead of the annual Rath Yatra, scheduled to commence on July 16.
The tailor servitors are engaged in stitching the traditional cloth coverings that adorn the towering chariots during the world-famous festival. A total of around 1,250 metres of red, yellow, green and black fabric is being used to prepare the canopies for the three chariots.
The work is being carried out on a war footing to ensure that the coverings are completed in time for the annual procession, one of the largest religious festivals in the country.
The preparations come as the Odisha government has intensified arrangements for the Rath Yatra, with authorities focusing on security, crowd management and public convenience.
On Friday, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reviewed the preparations and directed officials to ensure comprehensive security, seamless coordination among departments and smooth crowd management for the festival.
During a high-level review meeting, officials informed the Chief Minister that nearly 12,000 personnel from the Odisha Police and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), led by 19 senior IPS officers, will be deployed to manage security and regulate crowds during the event.
Authorities have also installed 1,700 bio-toilets, eight temporary hospitals, 473 CCTV cameras, 65 LED display screens and 16 permanent telecom towers as part of the preparations to facilitate devotees.
Special arrangements have also been made at the Gundicha Temple for senior citizens and persons with disabilities to ensure easier access during the festival.
Earlier, Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo said the Energy Department has completed all necessary preparations to ensure uninterrupted power supply and public safety during the Rath Yatra.
He said officials had inspected the entire city of Puri and addressed issues related to hanging electric wires and underground cable leakages. The department has also finalised staff deployment across districts where Rath Yatra celebrations are held.
Meanwhile, construction of the three chariots has entered its final stage, with around 220 traditional artisans, including carpenters, assistants and painters, working meticulously using traditional hand tools to complete the intricate wooden structures ahead of the annual festival.
