Nischalananda Saraswati has raised serious concerns over the ongoing inventory of the Ratna Bhandar at the Jagannath Temple, stating that he was neither informed nor consulted during the process.
Speaking at an event in Bhubaneswar, the Shankaracharya said he had no prior knowledge of the inventory exercise, questioning whether established procedures were properly followed.
‘No Communication From Authorities’
The seer stated that neither the temple administration nor the district authorities reached out to him regarding the Ratna Bhandar inventory.
“I have no knowledge of it. The officials did not discuss anything with me, nor did they inform me,” he said, responding to media queries.
His remarks highlight concerns about transparency and coordination in matters related to one of Odisha’s most significant religious institutions.
Reference to Supreme Court Guidelines
Citing directions of the Supreme Court of India, the Shankaracharya stressed that key decisions concerning the temple should involve consultation with him.
He expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the guidelines requiring his involvement were not followed during the inventory process.
“It was directed that such work should proceed with my guidance, but no consultation took place,” he added.
No Official Response Yet
As of now, there has been no official response from the temple administration or the district authorities regarding the concerns raised.
The issue has drawn attention as the Ratna Bhandar—considered one of the most sacred and historically significant repositories of the temple—remains a sensitive matter for devotees and stakeholders.
Background: Ratna Bhandar Inventory
The inventory process aims to document valuables stored in the temple treasury, an exercise that has long been discussed due to its cultural, historical, and religious importance.
Further phases of the inventory are expected in the coming weeks.
