Lord Jagannath’s Ratna Bhandar safe, repair work nearing completion: Puri's Titular King

Puri's titular king, Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, announced on Thursday that the 'Ratna Bhandar' (treasure chest) of Lord Jagannath Temple is safe and its extensive repair work is nearing completion. Deb personally inspected the ongoing restoration being carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the custodian of the 12th-century shrine, which has been in progress for 11 months. He was accompanied by Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee and ASI technical team members, who supervised both the outer and inner chambers of the treasury, found in a dilapidated state.

Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb stated that the structural revamp and aesthetic enhancements of the Ratna Bhandar have been meticulously carried out to reflect Odisha’s timeless temple architecture. Approximately 600 stone slabs have been replaced with new ones, replicating traditional designs while significantly reinforcing safety. "Whatever little work is left is expected to be completed by Niladri Bije (the return of the deities to the temple after Rath Yatra) on July 8," the titular king informed reporters outside the imposing 65-meter tall temple.

Officials confirmed that the Ratna Bhandar was reopened on Sunday, marking its first opening in 46 years, for the dual purpose of inventorying its valuables and undertaking the necessary structural repairs. The ASI commenced its work inside the treasury in July 2024. Sources reveal that a total of 14 beams have been repaired, with over 80 skilled craftsmen engaged in the intricate restoration. Padhee added that interior repairs are almost finalized, with external treasury finishing touches expected within two days. Both inner and outer parts are being preserved with chemical coatings, and new stainless-steel and Burma Teak wood security gates, which will later feature silver cladding, have been installed to enhance security. Following the completion of repairs, the SJTA, with state government permission, plans to undertake a comprehensive inventory of the precious valuables stored within.