Retired High Court Judge to oversee inventory as Jagannath Temple Ratna Bhandar opens

The Ratna Bhandar, the treasury of the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, will be opened for inventory and audit on Sunday. This will be the first time in over 45 years since it was last opened in 1978. The 16-member committee, led by retired High Court judge Biswanath Rath, will supervise the process. Precautions will be taken, including the presence of snake helpline officials and doctors, due to the possibility of snakes and health issues.

Preparing for the inventory

During the last inventory in 1978, 454 gold items weighing 128.380 kg and 293 silver items weighing 221.530 kg were found. The Ratna Bhandar has two chambers: Bahara Bhandar (outer chamber) and Bhitara Bhandar (inner chamber), with the inner one being larger. Some valuables are stored in wooden boxes, and there are concerns about rainwater damage. The committee members have turned vegetarian and will dress in traditional attire before entering the treasury.

ALSO READ: Mumbai hit-and-run: Mihir Shah confronted with driver as Police recreate scene

Once opened, the items will be moved to a designated area within the temple for inspection by goldsmiths and meteorologists to determine their composition. The entire process will be digitally cataloged and recorded. Despite the inventory process, devotees will still be able to visit the temple, although viewing the deities may be restricted.

ALSO READ: PM Modi in Austria: India advocates peace, not war, gives 'Buddha' to the World

The Ratna Bhandar has historical significance, with records dating back to 1805 when the first official account was prepared by Charles Grome, the then Collector of Puri. Over the centuries, various kings and rulers have donated treasures to the temple. The upcoming inventory aims to account for these treasures and ensure their preservation.