In West Bengal’s Raiganj, preparations are underway with fervour to create a majestic Golden Chariot that pays homage to the South Indian tradition. It is set to become the centrepiece of this year’s Rath Yatra. Valued at an estimated Rs 10 lakh, this chariot is being meticulously crafted from neem and sal wood, known for their durability and traditional significance. The initiative has gained significant momentum, particularly in Raiganj’s Beltala area of Debinagar, where skilled artisans are dedicatedly shaping every detail of this cultural marvel. The inspiration for this endeavour stems from Champak Brahma and his wife’s transformative visit to the Murudeshwar Temple in Karnataka four years ago, where they were deeply moved by the grandeur of the temple chariot. Motivated by this experience, they initiated the Rath Yatra in Raiganj, sparking a community effort to recreate a similar chariot that would symbolise devotion and cultural heritage.
