Sacred Ratna Bhandar Inventory Begins at Puri Jagannath Temple After 48 Years.

Utpal Bikash Pradhan | HENB | Puri | March 25, 2025:: In a development of profound cultural, religious, and administrative significance, the long-awaited inventory and verification of ornaments housed in the Ratna Bhandar of the Shree Jagannath Temple commenced today after a gap of 48 years. The exercise marks a historic moment for Odisha, blending centuries-old spiritual traditions with modern standards of accountability and preservation.

The process began during an auspicious window between 12:09 pm and 1:45 pm, in strict adherence to temple rituals and customs. Authorities underscored that the initiative transcends routine administrative procedure, describing it instead as a sacred undertaking that reflects the collective devotion of millions of devotees to Bhagwan Jagannath.

A Return to the 1978 Records

Central to the exercise is the verification of ornaments against the last official inventory conducted in 1978. Each item is being meticulously examined, weighed, identified, and tagged. Officials clarified that no monetary valuation will be undertaken at this stage, as the focus remains solely on documentation and authentication.

The process is being executed under a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), ensuring transparency and precision. In a significant departure from past practices, authorities are employing advanced documentation tools such as digital photography, videography, and 3D mapping. These measures aim to create a secure, tamper-proof digital archive that will serve as a long-term reference for future audits and conservation efforts.

A Treasury of Rare and Priceless Ornaments

The Ratna Bhandar is believed to house some of the rarest and most historically significant jewellery in India, including intricate ornaments crafted from gold, diamonds, and other precious stones.

According to the last inventory conducted in 1978, the treasury contains 454 types of gold ornaments weighing 12,883 bhari and 293 types of silver ornaments weighing 22,153 bhari. Historical accounts further underscore the scale of wealth preserved within the temple. An article in Odisha Magazine notes that King Anangabhima Dev had donated 2.5 lakh madhas of gold for the preparation of jewellery dedicated to the deity.

The Odisha Review (2022) reported that the Bhitar Bhandar alone houses around 180 types of ornaments, including 74 varieties of pure gold items—some weighing over 1.2 kilograms. The chamber also contains plates made of gold, diamonds, corals, and pearls, along with more than 140 pieces of silver jewellery.

Historical documentation dates back even further. In 1805, then Puri Collector Charles Grome compiled a list of 1,333 ornaments stored within the inner chamber, offering a glimpse into the long-standing tradition of offerings made to the temple.

A widely circulated historical belief links the Kohinoor diamond to the Jagannath Temple through Maharaja Ranjit Singh, who is said to have expressed a wish to donate the famed gem—revered by some as the mythical Kaustav Mani—to Lord Jagannath. However, following his death in 1839 and the subsequent annexation of Punjab by the British, the diamond came into colonial possession instead. Today, the Kohinoor forms part of the British Crown Jewels, housed in the Tower of London. While the association with the Ratna Bhandar remains rooted in tradition and popular belief rather than verified temple records, it continues to evoke debate over historical ownership, legacy, and restitution.

Expert Involvement Marks a First

Addressing limitations of the 1978 exercise, the current inventory includes, for the first time, a team of domain experts. According to Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, the panel comprises gemologists, a metallurgist, goldsmiths—including those recommended by nationalised banks and the temple’s traditional artisan—and two senior officials from the Reserve Bank of India.

The inclusion of such specialists is expected to enhance the accuracy and credibility of the process. Detailed records, including the nomenclature, weight, size, quality, and number of embedded gemstones in each ornament, are being maintained. Once verified, the ornaments are carefully wrapped in smooth-textured fabric and secured in designated chests.

Phased and Structured Approach

Officials have outlined a phased methodology for the inventory. The initial stage focuses on ornaments used in daily rituals, followed by those stored in the Bahara Bhandar (outer chamber), typically used during special occasions. The final and most sensitive phase will involve the Bhitar Bhandar (inner chamber), which houses the most valuable and historically significant treasures.

To oversee the operation, the Odisha government has constituted two committees: a supervisory body to monitor the process and a handling committee responsible for on-ground execution.

Snake Myth and Official Clarification

Amid the renewed focus on the Ratna Bhandar, longstanding myths have also resurfaced. One such unverified report suggested that temple authorities were seeking a skilled snake charmer due to fears of reptiles inhabiting the chambers ahead of their opening.

However, these claims have been firmly dismissed. In 2024, Odisha High Court judge Biswanath Rath, following a visit to the chamber, categorically quashed concerns regarding the presence of snakes and other myths associated with the Ratna Bhandar.

He further clarified that after the shifting of ornaments from the outer chamber, a temporary strong room was secured, with keys entrusted to three authorised individuals. The arrangement ensures the safety of valuables, including ornaments used for daily rituals.

Rituals Continue Uninterrupted

Despite the scale and sensitivity of the exercise, temple authorities have assured that daily rituals (Niti) will proceed without disruption. Devotees will continue to have darshan, albeit from designated areas such as the Bahara Katha, in view of heightened security arrangements.

Officials emphasised that the “cosmic cycle” of the deities will remain undisturbed, preserving the sanctity and continuity of longstanding traditions.

Legal Oversight and Timeline Challenges

The Orissa High Court has directed the state government to complete the inventory within three months. However, Minister Harichandan acknowledged the complexities involved, noting that the intricate and sensitive nature of the process may pose challenges to adhering strictly to the timeline.

A Convergence of Faith and Governance

Describing the occasion as a landmark moment, Dr. Arabinda Padhee, Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, highlighted its broader significance. He termed the exercise a bridge between ancient traditions and modern responsibilities of preservation and transparency.

“This is not merely an accounting of gold, silver, diamonds, and precious stones, but a spiritual documentation of the faith and offerings of millions of devotees across generations,” officials remarked.

Security and Public Sentiment

The inventory is being conducted under tight security, with coordinated efforts between temple authorities, government agencies, experts, and security personnel. The move has been widely welcomed by devotees, many of whom have long awaited the verification of the Ratna Bhandar’s contents.

For many, the exercise symbolizes not just administrative diligence but a reaffirmation of trust and heritage.

Beyond Material Wealth

As the doors of the inner treasury open after nearly five decades, the moment carries symbolism beyond the physical riches it safeguards. While the jewels of the Ratna Bhandar are invaluable, officials and devotees alike note that the true wealth of Puri lies in the enduring faith that has sustained the temple for centuries.

The commencement of the inventory thus stands as both an administrative milestone and a collective act of devotion—uniting governance, tradition, and spirituality at one of India’s most revered pilgrimage sites.

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