TV
Restoration work of Puri Jagannath Temple Ratna Bhandar (treasure trove) is complete, the shrine’s Chief Administrator confirmed on Monday. The repair spanned around 95 days and involved structural reinforcement with granite stones and steel beams.
Also Read: Puri Jagannath Temple Ratna Bhandar is fully secure, wears a stunning look: Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb
Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee stated that around 520 large stones were replaced during the repair of sacred Ratna Bhandar, which had been in a deteriorating condition.
The repairs were carried out with granite stones, ensuring greater durability. The interior now features nine stainless steel beams, while six such beams have been installed on the exterior for additional structural support.
Entire renovation was executed under the direct supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The project lasted for a total of 333 work hours across 95 days. Both the inner and outer chambers of Ratna Bhandar underwent thorough repairs, marking the end of a critical restoration phase.
While the main repair work has concluded, illumination and beautification aspects remain pending. Experts will soon decide on the lighting system and aesthetic improvements to further enhance the sanctum’s security and visibility.
“Repair and restoration work, which had started last year, has come to an end. The repairs were subsequently started after opening the inner Ratna Bhandar and outer Ratna Bhandar on July 14, 2024, as per the SOP of the State government,” the SJTA chief said.
Puri Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb had earlier stated while speaking to mediapersons, “Let us pray to the Lord that the repair works of His Bhandar would end before Niladri Bije. What we observed, Ratna Bhandar is entirely secure now. It is looking so nice after restoration. All the repair works have been carried out with Sahana stone.”
Furthermore, Gajapati Maharaja had noted that once Lord Jagannath is reinstalled on Ratna Singhasan (jewelled throne of the sibling deities), the Ganati-Manati (inventory and verification) process of valuables preserved in the treasure trove will be undertaken.
