Ratna Bhandar Reopens After 46 Years: Political Controversy and Religious Significance

The Ratna Bhandar, the 12th-century Jagannath temple's treasury in Puri, reopened after 46 years for inventory and repairs. The reopening, a major political issue during recent elections, involved extensive rituals. Efforts to inventory the valuables and ensure structural safety are ongoing. The BJP claims fulfillment of promises to the Odia people.

Ratna Bhandar, the revered treasury of the 12th-century Jagannath temple in Puri, reopened after 46 years on Sunday for an inventory of valuables and structural repairs.

The state government committee entered the temple around noon. Following rituals, the treasury reopened at 1.28 pm, as decided in a morning meeting.

However, inventory work did not commence on Sunday, and officials anticipate it will take time. Meanwhile, significant political ramifications surround the reopening, with BJP touting it as a fulfillment of electoral promises.

(With inputs from agencies.)