Puri: In a momentous event for Odisha, the Ratna Bhandar, the revered treasury of the 12th-century Jagannath temple, reopened on Sunday after 46 years. This reopening, aimed at conducting an inventory of valuables and repairing the structure, took place at the auspicious time of 1:28 PM on July 14.
The outer chamber of the Ratna Bhandar was the first to be opened, with special boxes prepared to transfer ornaments to a temporary strong room. The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) expressed that the reopening aligns with the community’s desire to preserve their cultural identity, stating, “On your wish, the Ratna Bhandar was opened after 46 years for a greater purpose.”
Eleven members, including former Orissa HC judge Biswanath Rath and Shree Jagannath Temple Administrator (SJTA) chief administrator Arabinda Padhee, entered the treasury. The SJTA is overseeing the operations, ensuring that all necessary arrangements, including CCTV installation, are in place for the valuables’ safety.
Padhee clarified that while the treasury has reopened, the inventory process will commence only after government approval for the engagement of valuers and experts. “Our priority will be to ensure the safety of the structure,” he noted.
Earlier that morning, Justice Rath and Padhee offered prayers at the Gundicha temple for the successful completion of the work.
