Aditya Sisodia
As the auspicious occasion of Rath Yatra approaches, the Grand Road facing the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, is undergoing a magnificent transformation. Spanning a sprawling 4,000 square meters in front of the temple’s lion gate, a group of 25 skilled artists have come together to create giant chita patterns, adorning the path that will welcome the deities during Rath Yatra. This year, the artists have taken their artistry to new heights, crafting jumbo floor art that is captivating the attention of tourists and devotees alike. With their traditional Odissi chita designs, the artists aim to make the path as iconic and vibrant as the deities’ majestic chariots, while also showcasing the rich artwork of the state.
The intricate floor art, created using stencil graphic design techniques, is not only a grand spectacle but also an opportunity to highlight the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. For the past nine days, these talented artists, hailing from different parts of the state, have been meticulously adorning the area with their masterpieces. Their passion for art finds the perfect platform in the grandeur of the Rath Yatra.
Young artist Suresh, who completed his studies at an art college, expresses his delight at finding a platform to showcase his skills through the Rath Yatra festivities. The colossal chita art has been attracting large crowds, providing a visual feast for visitors. The brilliance of the artwork has captivated tourists like Rachana Biswas, who couldn’t help but praise the ambiance created by the floor art at the entrance of the Jagannath Temple. The vibrant motifs have become a focal point for photography enthusiasts, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who witnesses them.
Overseeing the beautification of the Grand Road are Puri sub-collector Bhabatarana Sahu and executive engineer of Odisha Bridge and Construction Corporation (OBCC) Limited, Prabhat Panigrahi. They have meticulously planned and ensured the flawless execution of the project. To withstand the vagaries of weather, weatherproof paint of the highest quality has been used to create the floor art. Devotees have appreciated the aesthetic design of the motifs, recognising the effort and artistry behind this mesmerising transformation. This beautification initiative is part of the ongoing Shree Jagannath Parikrama project, undertaken by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration.
As Rath Yatra on June 20 draws near, the festivities will extend beyond the Grand Road to the main temple itself. The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration plans to adorn the temple with colourful flowers, further enhancing the vibrant atmosphere of this grand celebration. With the mesmerising floor art on the Grand Road and the temple’s floral decorations, the entire ambiance will radiate divine splendour, enriching the spiritual experience for all devotees.
The transformation of the Grand Road in Puri, Odisha, into an awe-inspiring canvas of chita art is a testament to the artistic prowess and devotion of the talented artists involved. As the deities’ chariots roll down this iconic path during Rath Yatra, the vibrant motifs will create an enchanting visual journey for all. This extraordinary display not only showcases the rich cultural heritage of Odisha but also provides a platform for artists to showcase their skills and receive well-deserved recognition. With each stroke of paint, the artists are immortalising the spirit of Rath Yatra, adding an extra layer of magnificence to the divine celebration.
Feature Image: Jhoti Chita – The traditional floor & wall painting of Odisha. Courtesy: Culture and Heritage
