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

The Ratna Bhandar treasury of the 12th-century Jagannath temple in Puri was reopened after 46 years for inventory and structural repairs. Officials, including a committee set up by the state and notable figures, performed rituals before reopening the treasury. However, the inventory of valuables will not be conducted immediately.

The revered Ratna Bhandar treasury of Puri's 12th-century Jagannath temple has been reopened after 46 years, officials announced. The reopening, aimed at inventory and structural repair, saw the participation of a state-setup committee and notable dignitaries.

Committee members entered the temple at noon, conducting necessary rituals before the treasury doors were opened. The Chief Minister's Office also acknowledged the event, emphasizing it as a significant step for the Odia community, referred to as 'Odia Asmita'.

Among those present were former Orissa HC judge Biswanath Rath, Shree Jagannath Temple Administration chief Arabinda Padhee, ASI Superintendent DB Gadanayak, and the Gajapati Maharaja's representative. Despite the reopening, officials noted that the inventory of valuables slated to be conducted at a later date.

(With inputs from agencies.)