Puri, Jul 9: The long-awaited restoration of Puri Jagannath Temple’s iconic Ratna Bhandar (treasure chamber) has officially been completed, Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan announced. A high-level committee meeting will finalize the date for inventory and verification in August.

The government plans to conduct the counting by roping in two expert assessors, as per the request to the Reserve Bank of India. These experts — known for their experience at Somnath Temple and other prominent shrines — will assist in the identification and documentation of priceless ornaments and treasures.

A new secure chest has also been prepared to safeguard the ornaments. Veteran jewellers will be identified to examine and assess the existing assets. Post-restoration, the Ratna Bhandar is expected to remain structurally sound for over a century, officials stated. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has handed back responsibility for the chamber to the temple administration.

New Gold Ornaments

In future ceremonies, including the Suna Besha (gold adornment ritual), newly crafted ornaments will be used instead of the ones stored in the Ratna Bhandar.

The government is working on ensuring this separation, and devotees will be requested to contribute gold donations for creating new adornments.

According to temple servitors, some existing ornaments have worn thin or become damaged over time. At a recent Chhatisa Nijoga committee meeting, held in the presence of the Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, a request was also placed for a new set of adornments — pending divine approval.

The faithful await the upcoming inventory process with hope and reverence, recognizing it as a key step toward transparency and preservation of cultural heritage.

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