Kolkata, July 15 -- What was once a neighbourhood festival centred on children pulling miniature chariots has grown into a much larger public celebration, reflecting both rising enthusiasm and changing political realities in West Bengal. This year's Rath Yatra witnessed a significant increase in the sale of chariots across Kolkata, the BJP-led state government also announced financial assistance for long-standing Rath Yatra committees.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that 60 Rath Yatra committees with decades of history would receive Rs 5 lakh each this year.
The festive mood was clearly reflected in Dompara, also known as Ramesh Dutta Street, Kolkata's traditional hub for Rath-making. Nearly 250 families engaged in the craft reported an exceptional season, with most workshops selling out their entire stock almost a week before the festival. Artisans said demand was strong not only for large chariots ordered by clubs and community committees but also for small and medium-sized raths purchased by households.
"The demand is significantly higher this year. We are working day and night to meet orders," said artisan Gopal Patra.
Similar trends were reported by vendors in other parts of the city. Prasanta Majhi, a Rath seller near Gariahat Market, said sales had exceeded previous years, with customers buying both decorative and traditional wooden chariots.
While Rath Yatra continues to remain a festival rooted in faith and community celebrations, it is increasingly finding a place in the state's political landscape. As public participation grows and official patronage expands, the annual festival appears to be evolving beyond a religious celebration into an event that also reflects West Bengal's changing social and political atmosphere.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.