Puri Temple Ratna Bhandar counting, inventory process to start in March

In a significant development concerning the revered Ratna Bhandar of the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri, the Odisha government has initiated steps to begin the long-awaited counting and inventory process. Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Wednesday announced that the exercise is planned for the first week of March, following consultations with key temple authorities. 

The move comes after discussions with the Chhatisha Nijog, while the Managing Committee and temple administration have been entrusted with finalising the schedule in accordance with established rituals and traditions.

According to the Law Minister, the Odisha government is planning to initiate the process by early March. The responsibility has been entrusted to the Managing Committee and the temple administration.

"We are hoping to commence the process within the first week of March. Sole responsibility has been entrusted to the Managing Committee and the temple administration. They will hold discussions with members of the Chhatisha Nijog and, in accordance with the rituals of Lord Jagannath, determine the most appropriate time to carry out the exercise. Based on these consultations, the stipulated date and time will be finalised. While we are aiming to begin in the first week of March, the process must coincide with the sacred rituals of Lord Jagannath,” said Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan.

Also Read: Puri Jagannath Temple: SOP discussed in key meeting on Ratna Bhandar inventory

Date to Be Finalised Soon

The authorities will further consult the Chhatisha Nijog to determine a suitable time in accordance with the rituals and traditions of the Lord. Based on these consultations, the final date will be officially announced.

The Minister emphasised that the process will proceed in line with established temple customs and after due deliberation with all concerned temple authorities.