When Will the Inventory of Jagannath Temple's Ornaments Start?
Synopsis
Odisha's Chief Minister is taking steps to ensure the meticulous inventory of the Shree Jagannath Temple's treasures. This comprehensive procedure, which includes a digital catalog, aims for transparency and accuracy. The last inventory was conducted in 1978, making this a significant event for the state's heritage.
Key Takeaways
Inventory of Ratna Bhandar to start soon.
Last inventory was conducted in 1978.
Process to be carried out with transparency .
Includes photography and a digital catalog .
Preparations for Rath Yatra underway.
Bhubaneswar, Feb 16 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, convened a meeting on Monday to assess the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) established for the inventory of ornaments and other valuable assets housed in the 'Ratna Bhandar' (treasure trove) of the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri.
The counting and verification of gold ornaments and jewels in this historic 12th-century shrine is set to commence shortly, as confirmed by state government officials during a high-level meeting held at Lok Seva Bhavan under Chief Minister Majhi's leadership.
During the meeting, the Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple administration, Arabinda Kumar Padhee, delivered an in-depth presentation to the Chief Minister.
As per the official press release, all initial steps for the counting and verification process have been finalized.
The Archaeological Survey of India completed the restoration and conservation of both the inner and outer Ratna Bhandar in just 95 days, amounting to a total of 333 working hours.
With this completion, both the temple administration and the state government are fully equipped for the upcoming exercise.
A detailed SOP for the inventory has been formulated by the Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee.
The inventory process will initiate once it receives the go-ahead from the state government.
Officials stressed that the entire operation will be executed with utmost transparency and under stringent security measures.
The last time an inventory was conducted was in 1978.
In this current exercise, the items stored in the Ratna Bhandar will be reconciled with the 1978 inventory list, leading to the creation of a final inventory.
This process will also encompass photography and the development of a digital catalog.
The meeting also touched upon the preparations for this year's Rath Yatra.
Given the substantial demand for Phasi (Terminalia phillyreifolia) wood and sandalwood for the construction of the chariots, Chief Minister Majhi instructed officials to propose a plantation program for these trees under various forest schemes.
Others present at the high-level meeting included Odisha Works and Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan and State Chief Secretary Anu Garg.
Point of View
It is paramount to highlight the significance of the inventory process at the Shree Jagannath Temple. Not only does it represent a commitment to preserving Odisha's cultural heritage, but it also demonstrates the state's dedication to transparency and accountability. This effort, being the first since 1978, marks a pivotal moment for the temple and its devotees.
NationPress
1 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ratna Bhandar?
The Ratna Bhandar is the treasure trove of the Shree Jagannath Temple, housing valuable ornaments and artifacts.
When was the last inventory conducted?
The last inventory of the Ratna Bhandar took place in 1978.
Who is overseeing the inventory process?
The inventory process is being overseen by Odisha's Chief Minister, Mohan Charan Majhi.
What is the purpose of the SOP?
The SOP is designed to ensure a systematic and transparent inventory of the temple's treasures.
What preparations are being made for Rath Yatra?
Preparations for Rath Yatra involve significant planning, including the procurement of materials like Phasi wood and sandalwood for chariot construction.
