Puri, July 14: An authorized team comprising as many as 11 members, entered Puri Jagannath Temple on Sunday to intiate Ratna Bhandar opening.
The team after offering prayers before Maa Bimala, proceeded towards the Ratna Bhandar at noon to execute all formalities for inventory of the underground treasury which has remained shut for almost 45 years.
According to the resolution of a significant meeting held today,Ratna Bhandar Inventory Committee Chairman Justice and a member of the panel, Chief Administrator of Shri Jagannath Temple Administration(SJTA), two members of the temple managing committee, Puri district Collector, SP, representative of Puri Gajapati Maharaj, an ASI official with two members of Mekap, Deulakaran and Chadhaukaran servitors have been included in the Ratna Bhandar inventory team.
Sources said, the team will enter the inner cellars of the Ratna Bhandar and physically verify the status of the gems and jewels treasured here. While,the ASI officials will take stock of the cracks and holes in the inner walls of the Ratna Bhandar, for futuristic renovations.