Bhubaneswar, June 26: The Ratna Bhandar of the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri is set to undergo renovation, marking a significant event as the treasury items inside will be listed for the first time since 1978. The temple's management, under the newly formed BJP government, is preparing to convert the current sanduks (wooden and metal boxes) into modern iron chests resembling those used in banks, enhancing security measures. This initiative follows a decades-long hiatus, with the BJP government prioritising the fulfilment of its electoral promise to open the Ratna Bhandar and investigate the missing keys.

Located near the sanctum sanctorum, the 12-meter-high and 9x7-meter-wide chamber has raised concerns among Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officials and temple servitors due to structural weaknesses and wall cracks. According to a report by the Times of India, plans include immediate repairs and subsequent renovations once the government initiates the chamber's opening and inventory process, expected to occur after nightly darshan rituals for security reasons. Odisha: Sand Artist Sudarsan Pattnaik Writes to CM Mohan Charan Majhi Seeking Immediate Repair of Ratna Bhandar, Treasury of Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri (Watch Video).

The inventory process, anticipated to be conducted under stringent security measures after daily darshan hours, aims to assess the condition of gold, silver, and other valuable articles. The government plans to engage jewellery valuers from within and outside the state for the comprehensive audit, considering the controversial history surrounding Ratna Bhandar's missing keys and subsequent discoveries of duplicate sets. Odisha: All Four Doors of Puri Jagannath Temple Opened Today for Devotees; CM Mohan Charan Mahji, Ministers Offer Prayers (Watch Videos).

Meanwhile, noted sand artist and temple committee member Sudarsan Patttnaik has urged Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to expedite repairs, citing concerns over potential monsoon damage, as reported by news agency IANS. Patttnaik emphasised the ASI's prior recommendations for immediate action following inspections in 2018, highlighting unaddressed structural issues that continue to pose risks. With expectations high for swift government action, the renovation and repair efforts at the Ratna Bhandar aim to safeguard its cultural and historical significance amidst ongoing challenges and controversies.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 26, 2024 07:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).