New ornaments for Lord Jagannath in upcoming 'Suna Besha': Odisha Minister

In good news for the countless devotees of Lord Jagannath across the globe, Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Monday announced that new ornaments will be used during the upcoming 'Suna Besha' (golden attire) of the Holy Trinity in Puri. 

The Minister clarified that none of the ornaments from the Ratna Bhandar will be used for the occasion.

The Minister stated that the government will make arrangements for the new ornaments, and devotees will be encouraged to donate gold for this purpose. Some of the existing ornaments of the deities are worn out or damaged, while others have reportedly been misplaced, according to temple servitors.

During a recent meeting of the 'Chhatisa Nijoga' (representative body of temple servitors) attended by the Chief Minister, a proposal was made for a new set of ornaments. Minister Harichandan remarked that if it is the Lord’s will, the proposal will be fulfilled.

Must Read: If Lord Jagannath wishes, new ornaments will adorn Him: Odisha Minister

"Whatever is decided in our government, we take that work forward. The previous government was not even able to open the Ratna Bhandar of Srimandir, which was in a dangerous state with structural damage. Now, they are only criticising. As per our promise, Ratna Bhandar was opened, and it has been repaired. The ASI has already started the process to hand over the repaired Ratna Bhandar to the temple administration," said Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan.

A couple of days earlier, the Minister had stated that such a change would only occur if it aligned with the divine will of the Lord.

"Everybody wants new ornaments for the deities. However, if Lord Jagannath wishes, it will only be possible," the Minister had said.