Suparjya swain 
Bhubaneswar: The conservation and repair work of the Ratna Bhandar at the sacred Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri is progressing steadily and is expected to be completed before the annual Ratha Yatra in 2025, according to Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA).
Sharing updates on social media platform X, Dr. Padhee informed that the conservation work, being carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Puri Circle, is advancing under expert supervision.
“The conservation and repair works of the Ratna Bhandar at Shree Mandir were reviewed today with officials from the ASI, Puri Circle. The inner conservation of the Bhitara Ratna Bhandar is nearly complete, except for floor renovation. A major milestone has been achieved with the precise installation of five stainless steel (SS) box beams within the inner chamber,” he noted.
The outer chamber, Bahara Ratna Bhandar, is also undergoing critical renovation. Damaged stone elements are being replaced, and structural conservation efforts on the outer façade are in full swing. This includes careful de-plastering near the junction of the Jagamohana Pidha stones and the replacement of porous and weakened stone blocks.
Dr. Padhee emphasized the importance of precision in the ongoing work. “Given the sensitive nature of the Ratna Bhandar conservation, meticulous planning and execution are of paramount importance. We are optimistic that the ASI will complete this ambitious project ahead of the Ratha Yatra,” he said, reaffirming SJTA’s full cooperation in the process.
Concluding with a spiritual note, he added, “May the conservation, repair and restoration of the Ratna Bhandar be completed soon, in accordance with the divine will of Mahaprabhu. Jai Jagannatha!”
The Ratna Bhandar, believed to house the priceless jewels of Lord Jagannath and his siblings, holds immense spiritual and cultural significance, making its preservation a matter of both heritage and devotion.
