Lord Jagannath Joins Forces with MRF: A Powerful New Era for Sukhoi Tyres After IAF Partnership!
On the night of May 31, the streets of Kolkata witnessed a unique spectacle as the chariot of Lord Jagannath rolled on tyres originally designed for Sukhoi fighter jets. This 24-kilometer dry run was conducted to confirm the proper installation of these specialized tyres on the chariot, a significant shift from the traditional Boeing tyres it had carried for decades. For over 50 years, ISKCON Kolkata has organized the annual Rath Yatra, but recently the need for robust tyres became apparent as the aging Boeing tyres encountered axle issues.
Radharaman Das, Vice President of ISKCON Kolkata, explained that the organization had been on the lookout for a suitable replacement for the past 20 years. “We approached MRF for Sukhoi aircraft tyres, and they were initially shocked,” he said. The long-standing use of Boeing tyres stemmed from a unique history-an American disciple commissioned a new chariot in 1977, using second-hand Boeing tyres sourced from Kolkata Airport. However, with Dunlop, the original manufacturer, ceasing operations, ISKCON faced mounting challenges in sourcing aircraft tyres.
The Sukhoi tyres, measuring 4 feet in diameter, emerged as the closest match to the ideal size, prompting MRF to send a team for confirmation. “They verified our claims and made site assessments of our existing Boeing tyres,” Das noted. Following their inspection, MRF agreed to supply four tyres, each capable of supporting 16 tonnes of weight, at a cost of ₹1.72 lakh. The installation process took about 20 to 25 days and involved minor structural adjustments to ensure the integrity of the traditional wooden and iron framework.
The excitement builds as the annual Rath Yatra approaches, scheduled for July 27, 2025, when thousands of devotees are expected to gather to pull the ropes of Lord Jagannath’s chariot. The symbolism of using tyres designed for supersonic jets adds a modern twist to this age-old tradition, reflecting both the evolution of technology and the enduring significance of the event.
Other deities’ chariots, including that of Lord Balaram, have also received updates, now equipped with new iron wheels. As Kolkata prepares for this year’s festival, the sight of the Sukhoi tyres gracing the chariot symbolizes both heritage and progress, bridging ancient devotion with contemporary engineering.
As devotees pull the ropes, they will not only engage in a spiritual journey but also embrace a piece of modernity meant to enhance the experience of the Rath Yatra. The upcoming event promises to blend tradition with innovation, reminding all who participate of the profound connections that bind past and present.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/kolkata/lord-jagannath-becomes-mrfs-second-client-for-sukhoi-tyres-after-iaf/article69646190.ece
Category : Kolkata
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Publish Date: 2025-06-02 02:04:00
