Puri, July 3: The sacred Ratna Bhandar (Treasure Chamber) of Lord Jagannath has been declared completely safe, following an extensive renovation effort that is now in its final phase. With the Niladri Bije ritual approaching, all necessary restoration works are expected to conclude on time.
After personally inspecting the site, Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb expressed satisfaction over the progress and quality of the repairs. He confirmed that the Ratna Bhandar is secure and now appears exceptionally beautiful post-renovation. The work was carried out following the traditional Kalinga temple architectural style, with nearly 600 new stones installed and all structural beams strengthened.
The Gajapati also announced that once the Ratna Singhasana of the deities is restored, inventory and verification of the treasures will follow. Further work, he added, will be initiated shortly based on the advice of the Odisha State Government.
At present, Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are on their annual nine-day Ratha Yatra journey. During this period, the Gajapati conducted an onsite inspection of the Ratna Bhandar within the Shree Jagannath Temple.
Sources indicate that both inner and outer sections of the Ratna Bhandar have been treated with chemical preservatives to enhance their longevity. More than 80 skilled artisans have been involved in the phased restoration process, which also includes structural and aesthetic upgrades.
Additionally, all Roop Dwaras (decorative entrances) of the temple have been thoroughly cleaned, and remaining doorways will soon be fitted with new teak wood panels. The wooden golden canopy in the sanctum sanctorum has been replaced with a stainless steel counterpart, ensuring both durability and preservation of the temple’s sacred aesthetics.
Meanwhile, the Chief Administrator of the temple also issued a statement, noting that the Gajapati personally monitored the progress and extended gratitude to the technical committee overseeing the restoration. While work inside the Ratna Bhandar is nearly finished, the outer section is expected to be completed within the next two days.
This renovation effort marks a significant step in preserving one of India’s most revered spiritual and cultural heritage sites.
