Puri Jagannath Temple appeals to ASI to complete the repair of 'Ratna Bhandar' before Rath Yatra

The Sri Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) in the town of Puri, Odisha asked the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to finish the restoration work of the shrine's 'Ratna Bhandar' of the Lord Jagannath Temple during the next Rath Yatra, when the Lord Jagannath will be away from the shrine for nine days along with his siblings.

Ratna Bhandar refers to the chamber in the Sri Jagannath Temple housing the Lord's precious objects and jewels. This store was opened after 46 years in July 2024, when the ASI started its repair and conservation work.

In the matter, SJTA Chief Administrator and IAS officer Arvind Padi has written a letter to ASI Director General Yadubir Singh Rawat saying that between June 28 and July 6, when Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra will be in Gundicha temple on Rath Yatra, the remaining repairs of Ratna Bhandar should be completed during that time. Rath Yatra will be held on June 27 this year.

Last year also, during the Rath Yatra, when the deity was not in the temple, the Ratna Bhandar was opened. At the same time, in his letter, Arvind Padi has also given instructions to ASI on many other points. Like- the sanctum sanctorum should be inspected by a senior officer (Deputy Director or Director level). ASI was thanked for successfully replacing the Khondalite stone near the Arun pillar and the conservation work done so far. The ramp construction work at the north gate was completed as per the order of the Supreme Court. A new design has been given for installing AC in the Natmandap (Dance Pavilion), whose approval is expected from ASI. Discussions are also going on with ASI consultants on the lighting system of the temple.

Arvind Padi also held a meeting with four 'Badagrahi' sevaks (who stay near the idols during the Rath Yatra) regarding the preparations for the Rath Yatra. He said, 'There was a detailed discussion on the smooth conduct of the 'Pahandi' (movement ceremony) of the deities. The administration has requested the sevaks not to use mobile phones on the chariot, so that religious decorum is maintained.'