Grand Road painted with traditional Odia floor art
Puri: In a spectacular display of devotion and artistry, the Grand Road in front of Jagannath Temple in Puri has been transformed into a canvas of traditional Odia floor art, mesmerizing thousands of pilgrims and visitors alike.
Spanning over 70,000sqft, the elaborate jhoti-chita artwork, a cherished symbol of Odia culture and tradition, now graces the temple's entrance. While this art form traditionally employs rice paste in rural households, the artists have adapted to using waterproof paint for durability on the Grand Road, ensuring the designs withstand the festive season.
Under the guidance of artist Gajendra Prasad Sahu, a dedicated team of 29 artists from various state art colleges has brought this vision to life.
"We began our sacred task on June 12, a day after Debasnan Purnima. Working tirelessly for over 10 hours daily across two weeks, we consider this more than just art – it's our service to Lord Jagannath," Sahu said.
The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration executed the grand decoration as part of Rath Yatra preparations. "Just as people adorn their homes for auspicious occasions, the temple precinct has been magnificently embellished to celebrate the deities' annual journey," temple's chief administrator Arabinda Kumar Padhee said.
The artistic transformation extends beyond the main temple, with an additional 20,000sqft of intricate floor art beautifying the entrance of Gundicha Temple where the deities will reside for a week during the annual festival.
"This magnificent display of traditional art not only enhances the spiritual atmosphere but also serves as a testament to Odisha's rich cultural heritage. It gives a memorable experience for devotees participating in this sacred celebration," Padmaja Biswas, a devotee from Kolkata, said.
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