Puri's Ratna Bhandar Restoration: A Glimpse into Lord Jagannath's Treasure
Restoration Progress of Ratna Bhandar
Puri: The Ratna Bhandar, the treasure chamber of the Lord Jagannath Temple, is secure, with repair efforts nearing completion, as confirmed by Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb on Thursday.
The Gajapati Maharaja conducted an inspection of the restoration work, which has been managed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) over the past 11 months.
Accompanied by Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee and ASI's technical team, he assessed both the outer and inner sections of the treasury, which had suffered significant deterioration.
Deb noted that the renovations not only enhance the structure but also showcase the enduring architectural style of Odisha's temples.
Approximately 600 stone slabs have been replaced with new ones, designed to mirror traditional aesthetics while ensuring safety, the titular king shared with reporters outside the towering 65-meter temple.
He mentioned that any remaining work is anticipated to be finalized by July 8, coinciding with Niladri Bije, the return of the deities to the temple.
Once the repairs are finished, the SJTA plans to conduct an inventory of the treasures, pending state government approval.
The Ratna Bhandar was reopened on Sunday after a 46-year hiatus for both inventory and structural repairs, according to officials.
The ASI commenced its work inside the Ratna Bhandar in July 2024, following its reopening for the inventory and repairs.
Reports indicate that 14 beams have been restored, with over 80 skilled artisans involved in the restoration process.
Padhee stated that the interior repairs are nearly finalized, with the outer treasury's finishing touches expected within two days.
He added that both the inner and outer sections of the Ratna Bhandar are being preserved with chemical coatings.
New security gates made of stainless steel and Burma Teak wood have been installed, with plans for silver cladding in the future.