Jugaad on wheels: Sukhoi jet tyres power Lord Jagannath's chariot in Kolkata

In a prime example of Indian 'jugaad' culture on display, Lord Jagannath's chariot in Kolkata is set to get a new pair of wheels after 48 years -- a brand-new set of tyres from Russia's Sukhoi fighter jet, which has a take-off run speed of up to 280 kmph.

Jugaad, a familiar word in India, translates to making do with what you have. After encountering steering issues last year, the organiser ISKCON sprang into action to get new wheels for the deity's chariot, which it has been seeking for the past 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 admitted that their demand for new wheels took the company that manufactures tyres for Sukhoi fighter jets by surprise.

When asked for a quotation, the manufacturer wondered why anyone would request Sukhoi tyres and for what purpose.

After explaining their need, ISCKON invited the manufacturers to come and inspect the chariot. Only then were they able to secure four Sukhoi tyres for the Rath.

Currently, the tyres are being installed as Kolkata will witness Lord Jagannath's chariot wheels powered by tyres made for Sukhoi fighter jets.

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