As Puri gears up for the majestic Rath Yatra, discover these 10 lesser-known, hidden, and surprising facts about the festival’s preparation

1. Secret Sacred Wood: The chariots' wood is sourced from a special forest kept secret. 2. Generational Artisans: Chariot builders inherit their craft through generations. 3. Midnight Rituals: Priests perform secret midnight rituals to sanctify the chariots.

4. Handwoven Canopies: The vibrant canopies are made from handwoven traditional fabrics. 5. Two-Month Construction: It takes about two months to construct the chariots. 6. Eco-Friendly Decorations: Natural dyes and materials adorn the chariots.

7. Chosen Devotees: Only selected devotees, chosen by tradition, pull the chariots. 8. Embedded Charms: Protective charms are embedded in the chariots. 9. Snana Purnima: Deities undergo a special bathing ceremony before the Yatra.

10. Largest Kitchen: The temple’s kitchen is the largest in the world, feeding thousands.

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