For the first time, the Patitapabana Bana atop the Neela Chakra of Jagannath Temple here caught fire on Thursday evening triggering apprehensions of bad omen among people.
The flag tied to the metal wheel was reduced to ashes after it caught fire from a lamp that was placed near the Neela Chakra (Blue Wheel).
On every Ekadasi, the lamp is placed near the giant metal wheel made out of Astadhatu.
As per temple servitors, it is the first such incident in the history of the temple. “It is inauspicious and an indication of great danger to the country and the State. The coronavirus has killed so many people across the world and four people have already been killed in India. I hope it doesn’t get worse. I pray Mahaprabhu (Lord Jagannath) to save the mankind,” a servitor said.
Earlier on several occasions, the flag tied to the Neela Chakra has snapped off. Last year during the Cyclone Fani, a similar incident had taken place with the flag coming off due to the gusty winds.