ODISHA: A Panel appointed by the Mohan Majhi government has proposed a fresh inventory of the Ratna Bhandar at Puri Jagannath Temple, marking a significant step towards resolving uncertainties surrounding its treasures last documented in 1978.

Justice Biswanath Rath, retired judge of the Orissa High Court and committee chairman, announced the proposal, aiming to commence both inventory and conservation efforts simultaneously on July 14.

"We are hopeful that the government will approve the proposed date," Justice Rath stated, highlighting the importance of this initiative amidst recent political discussions during the Odisha assembly elections.

The committee has drafted standard operating procedures (SOP) for the inventory, which include temporarily relocating items stored in the Ratna Bhandar within the shrine premises. This move will facilitate repair and conservation work overseen by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) due to structural concerns, including cracks.

Audit and inventory tasks will be carried out under tight security by expert valuers and goldsmiths in the makeshift Ratna Bhandar. Justice Rath emphasized the focus on identifying the nature and types of jewellery, without immediate valuation, prioritizing understanding their intrinsic characteristics and the presence of precious stones.

Describing the anticipated timeline, Justice Rath recalled the extensive 70-day inventory conducted in 1978, detailing findings such as 367 gold items weighing 4,360 bhari and 231 silver articles weighing 14,828 bhari in the inner chamber. The outer chamber revealed 87 gold items weighing 8,470 bhari and 62 silver items weighing 7,321 bhari.

As preparations proceed, the deities are currently housed at Gundicha temple and are expected to return to Jagannath Temple on Niladri Bije, coinciding with the proposed inventory timeline.

"To minimize disruption to normal darshan and daily rituals, we propose certain restrictions for devotees during this period," added Justice Rath, underscoring the committee's efforts to balance spiritual practices with necessary conservation measures.

This initiative marks a pivotal moment in preserving and understanding the historical treasures housed within Puri Jagannath Temple, reinforcing its cultural significance and heritage.

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