Srimandir Ratna Bhandar repair works to commence on December 17

Repair and renovation works at Jagannath Temple's Ratna Bhandar are all set to begin on December 17, following the arrangements discussed in the Chhatisa Nijog meeting, the temple's Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee said on Tuesday.

The initiative will first address the performance of Second Bhoga Mandap rituals before taking up the repair works. The initial phase involves the Dwarafita Niti starting at 2.00 AM and repairs continuing from 1.00 PM to around 5.00 PM or 6.00 PM, on normal weekdays.

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There will be no repair activities on weekends or special days to ensure minimal disruption for visitors. During this period, devotees will temporarily have only distant views of the deities from Bahara Katha at the Sanctum Sanctorum.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has verified that the restoration is anticipated to be completed within three months, as conveyed by the chief administrator. Compliance with the State's guidelines will govern the repair process.

Upon completion, there will be provisional measures to transfer the Lords’ ornaments back into the permanent place in Ratna Bhandar from the interim storage. Subsequent tasks will include the careful counting and evaluation of these treasures.

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“As Sankranti is falling on December 16, we postponed the repair work by a day and it will commence on December 17 instead. After the Madhyanha Bhog and Second Bhoga Mandap rituals are performed, the work will start and will continue up to four to five hours,” the Chief Administrator stated while briefing media persons.

“We are taking special care so that performances of rituals of the sibling deities are not disturbed,” the SJTA chief added.