Puri: The restoration work on the inner chamber of the Ratna Bhandar, the treasury of the Jagannath Temple, is nearing completion, according to the Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), Dr. Arabinda Padhee.
Following a significant meeting of the Chhatisa Nijog held today, Dr. Padhee informed the media that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has dedicated a total of 194 hours and 5 minutes to the intricate restoration work inside the sacred treasury.
“The structural conservation of the inner Ratna Bhandar is almost finished,” Dr. Padhee stated. “The only remaining task is the laying of granite flooring (Chatan) in the inner chamber, which is expected to be completed within the next 2–3 days.”
Providing further updates, Dr. Padhee noted that the repair and conservation work on the outer Ratna Bhandar is progressing smoothly. He revealed that an additional five stainless steel box beams will be installed in the outer chamber, supplementing the nine beams already utilized within. The ongoing restoration work is primarily utilizing Khondalite stones, ensuring the structural integrity and longevity of the treasury.
Highlighting the meticulous nature of the restoration, Dr. Padhee mentioned that loose stones identified within the Ratna Bhandar have been replaced. To date, a total of 277 stones have been used in the restoration process, with 148 stones incorporated into the inner chamber and 115 in the outer Amuha Deula.
However, Dr. Padhee also announced a temporary pause in the restoration work due to a series of significant upcoming religious observances. These include the Chandan Yatra, Sana Yatra, Daitapati Prabesh, and Gupta Niti. He clarified that the restoration activities will be halted during these rituals to ensure the smooth conduct of the religious ceremonies and to avoid any disruption for the devotees.
“The remaining restoration work on the Ratna Bhandar will be undertaken after the completion of the Ratha Yatra,” Dr. Padhee concluded, indicating a phased approach to the conservation efforts, balancing the need for structural repairs with the importance of the temple’s religious calendar.