Nabajouban Darshan to Be Brief This Year; SJTA Announces Strict Rath Yatra Rules

Bhubaneswar: The Nabajouban Darshan of Lord Jagannath on July 14 will be available for a shorter duration than usual this year, the Shri Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) announced after its final review meeting ahead of the annual Rath Yatra.

Addressing the media, SJTA Chief Administrator Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee said devotees will have limited time for Nabajouban Darshan due to the temple schedule. He also informed that public darshan will remain completely suspended on July 15, the day of the traditional ‘Ubha’ ritual.

The temple administration has also introduced a series of strict regulations to ensure the smooth conduct of the Rath Yatra.

Dr. Padhee made it clear that only authorised individuals will be allowed on the chariots during the festival. Anyone found climbing or riding the chariots without permission will face appropriate action.

In another major directive, the use of mobile phones on the chariots has been prohibited. The SJTA said surveillance through video cameras will be used to detect any unauthorised use of mobile phones or other electronic devices during the procession.

To improve crowd control and facilitate the pulling of the three chariots, the administration has decided to use two sets of ropes this year.

The SJTA appealed to devotees to follow the guidelines and cooperate with temple authorities and security personnel for the safe, orderly and successful conduct of the world-famous Rath Yatra.