Rath Yatra 2021: Reason behind Lord Jagannath's unfinished hands at Puri Temple

The Jagannath Rath Yatra commenced this year amid strict COVID protocol on July 12. Much like last year, this time around too administration has taken extra efforts to ensure safety measures are in place.

New Delhi: The most-revered chariot festival of Puri town, dedicated to Lord Jagannath - The Jagannath Rath Yatra commenced this year amid strict COVID protocol on July 12. Much like last year, this time around too administration has taken caution to ensure safety measures are in place. It is a 15-day long affair that is attended by lakhs of devotees who throng the temple town of Puri, Odisha to seek the blessings of the Lord. However, due to the second wave of deadly novel coronavirus pandemic, the temple is not open for devotees.  There are various legends and beliefs associated with the origin of the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra (brother), and Devi Subhadra (sister). The idols of the god inside the Puri temple are of a particular type and are not made out of any metal or stone. Rather, Neem wood is used to carve the idols beautifully.