Ratna Bhandar Inner Chamber Opened After 48 Years in Puri
Puri, April 13: In a historic development, the inner chamber of the Ratna Bhandar (treasury) at Jagannath Temple was opened today after nearly five decades for a detailed inventory and verification of ornaments.
The exercise is being conducted under strict security protocols and a state‑approved SOP, with magistrates and temple officials overseeing the process.
The treasury key is returned after each day’s counting to ensure accountability.
Officials will carry out item‑wise verification of ornaments against old records, though weighing will not be undertaken this time.
According to records, the chamber houses 367 types of gold ornaments weighing 4,364 bhari and 231 types of silver ornaments weighing 14,878 bhari 6 ana.
The Ratna Bhandar holds immense cultural and spiritual significance, being central to centuries of rituals dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
Devotees expressed reverence and curiosity as the chamber was opened, marking a moment of heritage preservation and transparency in temple administration.
