Jagannath Temple's Treasury to Welcome Devotees After 46 Years

The Odisha government will unlock the Ratna Bhandar, the revered treasury of the Jagannath temple in Puri, on Sunday after 46 years for an inventory of its ornaments and other valuables, a minister announced. The treasury was last opened in 1978.

The temple managing committee has ratified proposals from a high-level committee led by former Orissa High Court judge Justice Biswanath Rath. Some changes were made to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) before sending them for government approval. The government has now approved these SOPs and sent them back to the managing panel.

Inventory Process and Transparency

To ensure transparency during the inventory process, representatives from the RBI will be present. They will support the team formed by the managing committee. "Digital photography of the ornaments will be done," Harichandan said. "A digital catalog will be created for future reference."

An expert team led by the SJTA chief administrator has been formed to visit the Ratna Bhandar. This team includes representatives from ASI, servitors, the managing committee, and a high-power committee. Separate teams have also been formed for each task.

Preparations and Procedures

The procedures for reopening and inventory have been fixed, with the chief administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) supervising the work. A Suba Bela (auspicious time) will be chosen to open the treasury using a duplicate key held by the Puri district administration. If this key fails, the lock will be broken in the presence of a magistrate.

"Last time, it took more than 70 days to complete the inventory process," Harichandan noted. "This time, we aim to finish it faster with technology's help." He assured that neither rituals nor public darshan would be affected during this period.

Government's Role and Historical Context

The previous BJD government did not open the Ratna Bhandar during its 24-year rule. The BJP government, within a month of coming to power, decided to open it. "We have left it to Lord Jagannath for smooth completion of the process," Harichandan said.

Justice Rath mentioned that a medical team, snake helpline members, and a lock-breaking group would be on standby during the process. This comprehensive approach aims to address any unforeseen issues that may arise.

The state government has provided clear SOPs to the temple managing committee. Based on this guidance, necessary steps will be taken to ensure a smooth inventory process starting Sunday.

Ending a long wait for Jagannath devotees worldwide, Harichandan stated, "We are going to reopen the Ratna Bhandar tomorrow for inventory." The nature, character, quality, and weight of valuables in the treasury will be examined.

This initiative marks a significant step in maintaining transparency and preserving cultural heritage. The involvement of various experts and authorities underscores its importance and meticulous planning.