No Evidence of Tunnel in Shree Jagannath Temple's Ratna Bhandar, Confirms Investigation

The mystery surrounding a possible tunnel inside the inner chamber of Ratna Bhandar treasury at Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri persists. Gajapati Maharaja Divya Singha Deb suggested on Thursday that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) could use modern technology to investigate. Deb's comments came in response to questions about the potential existence of a tunnel or secret chambers within the temple's treasury.

Advanced Technology for Investigation

Deb proposed that the ASI could employ advanced tools like laser scanning to assess the chamber's condition. A survey using such technology might reveal any existing structures, including tunnels. "A survey using such technology could provide insights into any existing structures, such as tunnels," Deb stated.

However, Justice Biswnath Rath, chairman of the supervisory committee and former judge of the Orissa High Court, reported no evidence of such features. He spent over seven hours inside the inner chamber with ten other members. "Based on our inspection, we did not find any evidence of such features like a tunnel," Rath clarified.

Inspection Findings

Durga Dasmohapatra, another committee member and servitor, echoed Rath's findings. "We did not see any secret chambers or tunnels inside the Lord's treasury," Dasmohapatra said. The Ratna Bhandar measures approximately 20 feet high and 14 feet long.

During their inspection, they noted some minor issues. Several small stones had fallen from the roof, and there was a crack in one wall of the Ratna Bhandar. Fortunately, the floor was not damp as feared.

Justice Rath urged media and social media influencers to avoid spreading misinformation about the subject. His call for restraint aims to prevent unnecessary speculation and confusion among the public.

The ongoing debate about the existence of a tunnel inside Ratna Bhandar continues to capture public interest. While some locals believe in its existence, official inspections have yet to confirm these claims.

The use of modern technology might eventually provide definitive answers. Until then, the mystery remains unsolved, with both sides presenting their perspectives based on available evidence.

The investigation into Ratna Bhandar's inner chamber highlights the importance of using advanced tools for archaeological studies. Employing such methods could help uncover hidden aspects of historical sites without causing damage.

As discussions continue, it is crucial to rely on verified information and expert opinions. This approach ensures that any conclusions drawn are based on factual evidence rather than speculation or rumours.

The situation at Shree Jagannath Temple underscores the need for careful examination and responsible reporting. By doing so, we can preserve historical integrity while satisfying public curiosity responsibly.