Bhubaneswar: A stark warning about the precarious state of the Shree Jagannath Temple’s Ratna Bhandar (Treasure Chamber) has been presented by Minister Law & Works, Prithviraj Harichandan.
Shri Harichandan revealed on Sunday that the ancient treasure chamber was at risk of collapse due to years of neglect and accumulated damage, emphasizing the critical importance of the ongoing restoration work.
Minister Law’s statement underscores the urgency surrounding the structural conservation of this historically and religiously significant treasure chamber. Speaking to the Media, he highlighted the concerning signs of deterioration discovered during recent structural assessments.
“If repair work had not begun now, the chamber might have given way anytime,” Harichandan stated, conveying the severity of the situation. He acknowledged that while the Ratna Bhandar had stood for nearly two centuries, the recent findings necessitated immediate action.
Key points from his statement include:
- Imminent Danger:
- The Law Minister stressed that the Ratna Bhandar was in a state of critical disrepair, posing a risk of collapse.
- Restoration Efforts:
- He confirmed that restoration work is currently underway, with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) overseeing the delicate process.
- Careful Conservation:
- Shri Harichandan emphasized that the ASI is not being pressured to expedite the work, and that the repairs are being conducted with utmost care, respecting the temple’s sanctity and historical value.
- Time constraints:
- Law Minister also pointed out the limited time that ASI is given to conduct the repair work, due to the temples rituals.
- Importance of the work:
- The aim of the repair work is to ensure the Ratna Bhandar remains structurally sound for the next 100 to 200 years.
The Ratna Bhandar holds immense cultural and religious significance, housing valuable treasures belonging to Lord Jagannath. The Minister’s disclosure has drawn widespread attention to the treasure chamber’s vulnerable condition, prompting calls for continued vigilance and support for the ongoing restoration efforts.