TV
Though the repair work of the Ratna Bhandar (treasury chamber) of the Jagannath Temple in Puri is currently on hold, it is set to resume soon and complete by the time of Niladri Bije, which marks the conclusion of the annual Rath Yatra festival. This was informed by Odisha’s Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Sunday.
The repair work was temporarily halted due to the religious schedules and rituals associated with the Lord Jagannath temple. At present, more emphasis is being given to the ritualistic discipline (Nitikanti) of the deities, especially with the approaching Rath Yatra.
As per the temple tradition, once the deities proceed to their chariots, the repair work inside Ratna Bhandar will restart, with a target to finish it during the return of the deities to the sanctum sanctorum (Niladri Bije).
Discussion With ASI DG
The Minister also informed that the Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) along with his team has reviewed the overall restoration work of the Puri Jagannath Temple, including the status of Ratna Bhandar.
A detailed assessment was carried out, especially focusing on the repairs that are permissible during the Rath Yatra when the deities are outside the temple, he said.
Importantly, the review emphasized that no structural changes will be made to the temple. All restoration efforts will be executed with utmost sensitivity towards preserving the sanctity and architectural heritage of the shrine. Discussions were held on the necessary interventions for the conservation of the temple without compromising its sacredness.
The temple administration has apprised the ASI DG of the practical requirements and structural concerns of the temple. The Minister reiterated that the ASI team has been instructed to incorporate advanced conservation techniques and traditional knowledge systems in the repair work to ensure both authenticity and durability.
“The ASI DG has reviewed and assured on the conservation works which will be taken up without any structural damage. Discussions have been held between SJTA chief administrator and ASI DG in this regard. Every step will be taken to ensure that there is no structural damage, and appropriate technology will be used,” informed Harichandan.
The Minister further informed that inspection of other aspects will begin after the Ratna Bhandar repair works. The repair works have been halted and it will be resumed after Rath Yatra and will be completed before the Niladri Bije of the deities.
The timely completion of Ratna Bhandar's repairs holds significance, especially amid growing public attention and past controversies surrounding the security and condition of the 12th-century shrine’s treasure trove.
