Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today declared 2-day holiday for the upcoming Puri Ratha Jatra scheduled on July 7 (Sunday).

"Hence this year's Ratha Jatra is rare and chariot pulling will be held for today days, I declare two days holiday in the state for the auspicious event," Majhi announced after reviewing the preparedness for the annual Ratha Jatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri.

He directed the officials to release an official notification in this regard soon.

As per the announcement, all government establishments will remain closed on July 7 (Sunday) and 8 (Monday) for Ratha Jatra.

Worth mentioning, Ratha Jatra and Netra Utsav -- the two major events are falling on same day. Therefore, the Nabajoubana darshan of Lord Jagannath that is conducted on Netra Utsav a day before Ratha Jatra every year will not be held this year.

As per the schedule, the chariots will be pulled two days -- July 7 and 8 -- to Gundicha Temple from Srimandir during 11-day long Ratha Jatra.