Historic Reopening of Ratna Bhandar After 46 Years for Inventory and Repair

The Ratna Bhandar, the treasured vault of the 12th-century Jagannath temple in Puri, reopened after 46 years for inventory and structural repair. The event involved officials, servitors, and security measures, with a major political backdrop during recent state elections over the vault's missing keys.

The Ratna Bhandar, the 12th-century Jagannath temple's revered treasury, was reopened on Sunday after 46 years to conduct an inventory of its valuables and repair its structure, according to officials.

A state government committee's members entered the temple around noon, performed rituals, and reopened the treasury. The event, a flashpoint during recent state elections, saw the BJP promising its reopening amid controversies over missing keys when targeting the then-ruling BJD.

The Odia community's renewed spirit, termed 'Odia Asmita,' was credited for the reopening, as stated by the Chief Minister's Office. Key figures present included former Orissa HC judge Biswanath Rath and other top officials. Six teak wooden chests were prepared to temporarily safeguard the valuables. The ratna bhandar had last been opened in 1978, and its long-awaited reopening followed intricate SOPs and thorough preparations.

(With inputs from agencies.)