A servitor fell from the chariot during preparations for the historic Rukuna Rath Yatra at Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar today.
The accident occurred while servitors worked on the construction and decoration of the chariot. One servitor lost balance and fell from the upper portion of the structure. He sustained injuries to his leg and face. Fellow servitors and temple staff rushed him to BMC Hospital, where doctors confirmed a fracture in his leg and facial injuries. His condition remains stable after receiving emergency treatment.
The incident created tension at the construction site. Local residents and members of the servitor community raised concerns about safety measures during the chariot-building process. The Lingaraj Temple administration and Bhubaneswar police initiated an inquiry to determine the cause of the accident.
The Rukuna Rath Yatra is one of the most celebrated festivals of Lingaraj Temple. Thousands of devotees participate in the annual procession. Preparations for the festival continue despite the accident, though authorities emphasised stricter safety protocols to prevent further mishaps. The temple administration assured that the chariot construction will finish on time and that additional precautions will be taken.
