The restoration work on the Ratna Bhandar, the sacred treasure vault of the Jagannath Temple in Puri, is nearing completion, according to Odisha’s Law Minister, Prithviraj Harichandan.
With only 50 to 55 hours of work remaining, the repairs to both the inner and outer sections of the vault are expected to conclude while Lord Jagannath resides at the Gundicha Temple during the ongoing Rath Yatra. The minister announced that the inventory and valuation of the treasures will commence soon after.
Speaking to the press, Harichandan emphasised on expediting the transfer of sacred treasure chests from a temporary treasury back to the Ratna Bhandar once repairs are complete. “If the work finishes early, we will promptly move Lord Jagannath’s treasure chests to the Ratna Bhandar. After the deity returns to Srimandir, the inventory process will begin,” he stated.
The minister underscored the temple’s role as a cornerstone of Odisha’s cultural and religious heritage. To safeguard it, the state government has introduced robust security measures, including a dedicated command and control centre to oversee Puri city and its surrounding roads. Additionally, a specialised battalion has been established to ensure comprehensive protection of the Srimandir.
