From Fighter Jets To Divine Wheels: Kolkata's Jagannath Chariot Gets Sukhoi Tyres

Last Updated:June 01, 2025, 11:36 IST

Kolkata's Lord Jagannath chariot gets new wheels from Russia's Sukhoi fighter jet after 48 years. ISKCON faced steering issues and couldn't procure Boeing tyres.

Kolkata's Jagannath Chariot Gets Sukhoi Tyres. (CNN News18)

In a quintessential display of Indian ‘jugaad’ ingenuity, Kolkata’s Lord Jagannath’s chariot is getting a fresh set of wheels after 48 years – remarkably, the new tyres are sourced from Russia’s Sukhoi fighter jet, designed for speeds up to 280 kmph.

The Indian concept of ‘jugaad’ – making do with available resources – is being applied to find a solution for Lord Jagannath’s chariot. After experiencing steering problems last year, ISKCON quickly sought new wheels, a quest they’ve been on for 15 years.

Since Boeing tyres — ones being used to power to chariots for so long — have become difficult to procure, the organisers approached Sukhoi instead, as their diameter closely matches that of the Boeing tyres.

ISKCON Kolkata spokesperson Radharaman Das confirmed that their demand for new wheels took the company that manufactures tyres for Sukhoi fighter jets by surprise.

When contacted for a quote, the manufacturer was puzzled, asking why anyone would need Sukhoi tyres and what they’d be used for.

After explaining their requirements, ISKCON invited the manufacturers to inspect the chariot, and only then were they able to procure four Sukhoi tyres for the Rath.

The Sukhoi fighter jet tyres are currently being fitted, and soon Kolkata will see Lord Jagannath’s chariot rolling on wheels designed for high-speed jets.

According to some reports, the chariot will move slowly and ceremoniously at a speed of 1.4 kmph.

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