After years of legal battles, controversies, and debates, the Ratna Bhandar, the sacred treasury of Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri, was reopened after 46 years on Sunday. The event marked a significant moment for devotees and historians alike.
The Reopening Ceremony of Ratna Bhandar
An 11-member committee, appointed by the Odisha government, entered the Jagannath temple on Sunday afternoon to reopen the revered treasury. The committee included former Orissa High Court judge Biswanath Rath, Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) chief administrator Arabinda Padhee, ASI Superintendent DB Gadanayak, and a representative of Puri’s titular king, ‘Gajapati Maharaja’. Additionally, four temple servitors were part of the group that entered the Ratna Bhandar.
Precious Ornaments and Centuries-Old Tradition
The Ratna Bhandar houses precious ornaments donated by devotees and erstwhile kings over centuries. These ornaments belong to the sibling deities — Jagannath, Subhadra, and Balabhadra. The treasury is divided into two chambers: the outer chamber (Bahara Bhandar) and the inner chamber (Bhitara Bhandar). While the outer chamber is opened on specific occasions, such as the Suna Besha (golden attire) ritual during the annual Rath Yatra, the last comprehensive inventory of the treasury was conducted back in 1978.
The Mysterious Lock and Absence of Guardian Snakes in Ratna Bhandar
One intriguing aspect of the Ratna Bhandar’s history is the mysterious lock that had remained unopened for nearly five decades. The reasons behind this prolonged closure have been a subject of speculation and folklore. Some believe that the lock was sealed due to divine intervention, while others attribute it to earthly concerns.
Contrary to popular legends that spoke of guardian snakes protecting the treasures, the reopening revealed no such serpentine presence. Instead, the focus was on meticulously assessing the valuables and ensuring the structural integrity of the treasury.
A Spiritual Milestone
The reopening of the Ratna Bhandar is not merely a historical event; it holds immense spiritual significance for devotees. As the sacred jewels once again see the light of day, the faithful celebrate the continuity of tradition and the blessings of Lord Jagannath.
In the words of the temple priests, “Today, after 46 years, your Ratna Bhandar was opened. I strongly believe that this will be a moment of divine grace and prosperity for all.”3
The Ratna Bhandar’s doors are now open, allowing us to glimpse the past and honor the legacy of devotion that spans centuries. It is a reminder that some treasures are not measured in gold alone but in the faith and reverence of those who safeguard them.
Note: The Ratna Bhandar’s reopening ceremony was conducted with utmost care and adherence to religious protocols. The event was witnessed by devotees, scholars, and officials, marking a historic day in the temple’s rich heritage.
