Puri, June 15 -- Preparations for the annual Rath Yatra in Puri are underway in full swing, with artisans, painters and servitors working round the clock on the construction and decoration of the three chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.

The three chariots, which are newly built every year for the world-famous festival, are taking shape as scheduled ahead of the grand procession.

Maharana Sebayats engaged in the Rath Nirman Karya (chariot construction work) said the construction is being carried out in strict adherence to traditional customs and rituals under the supervision of designated servitors. The work commenced after the customary rituals performed on Akshaya Tritiya and includes the preparation and ass...