Bhubaneswar, July 2: A group of youngsters in Puri have taken an initiative of assisting differently-abled persons to visit the Lord and his siblings at Gundicha temple.

Battling the crowd, the youngsters are taking utmost care to ensure that the differently-abled have a smooth darshan of the deities.

It was a first-time experience for many and an awe-inspiring experience for the differently-abled to see Lord Jagannath and the chariots from close quarters.

"I had one of the most memorable moments of my life. I had always seen the Lord on TV or in pictures. My wish is fulfilled today," said Rosalin Chowdhury, a 25-year-old girl on wheelchair.

Social organisation run by travel enthusiast Yugabrat Kar in Puri is supporting the youngsters in its initiative. Around 50 local youths are involved in the process.

"It is quite impossible for the differently-abled to reach Puri temple as one needs to climb a lot of stairs. But, the Gundicha temple is even, so we thought this would be the best chance to escort them and give them a chance to have the Lord's darshan," said Kar.

A resting kiosk was made for the physically challenged with chairs, drinking water and first aid facilities near the temple. The youths have also set up a stall near the Gundicha temple, so that people could know about their initiative. Apart from the differently-abled, they are also helping senior citizens in the process.

They had also taken up the initiative last year. But, there was no support from the local administration. There was no special gate for them and taking them along with the common crowd was risky.

"We took them through a special gate this time. The administration was supportive," added Kar.

Bhubaneswar-based organisaiton Swabhiman that is working for empowerment of the differently-abled also took 30 physically challenged people to Puri. Other organisations from across the state also took advantage of the initiative. Around 100 differently-abled people entered the temple every day.

For the young Samaritans, the experience was enriching. "It was a chance for us to understand the problems faced by them in their daily life and get sensitised to their issues. The experience was emotionally satisfying," said Alok Jena, one of the volunteers.