Jagannath Temple's Ratna Bhandar Reopened After 46 Years for Inventory

Puri's Jagannath Temple reopened its treasury, Ratna Bhandar, for the first time in 46 years to conduct an inventory of the ornaments and valuables. The reopening, supervised by a state-appointed committee, was led by Justice Biswanath Rath and SJTA chief administrator Arabinda Padhee.

For the first time in 46 years, Puri's famed Jagannath Temple has reopened its treasury, the Ratna Bhandar, to conduct an inventory of its ornaments and other valuables. The last time the treasury was opened was in 1978.

''The Ratna Bhandar of the Jagannath temple will be reopened today at 1.28 pm,'' announced Justice Biswanath Rath, the chairman of the committee appointed by the state government to supervise the inventory. The decision was confirmed at a committee meeting held in Puri.

Committee members, including Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) chief administrator Arabinda Padhee, are set to visit the treasury following its reopening. The temporary storage location for the valuables has also been identified, stated the former Orissa High Court judge.

(With inputs from agencies.)