This reopening marks a significant event for the devotees world over, as the Ratna Bhandar holds a collection of rare jewelry and precious gems donated over centuries. The Ratna Bhandar of the Jagannath Temple in Puri is renowned for its vast collection of invaluable treasures.
The Ratna Bhandar housing the treasure troves of the Jagannath Temple in Puri were reopened. The Odisha government approved the reopening to carry out an inventory of the invaluable ornaments and other treasures stored inside. The process was overseen by a high-level committee, including representatives from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and temple authorities. The inventory work will involve examining, weighing, and digitally cataloguing the valuables to ensure transparency and proper documentation.
This reopening marks a significant event for the devotees world over, as the Ratna Bhandar holds a collection of rare jewelry and precious gems donated over centuries. The Ratna Bhandar of the Jagannath Temple in Puri is renowned for its vast collection of invaluable treasures. Some of the notable items include gold crowns and ornaments studded with precious stones. The collection features a variety of coins, including gold, silver, and copper coins, some of which date back to ancient times. There are numerous types of ornaments, such as necklaces, bracelets, and other intricate jewelry pieces. These treasures have been preserved and cataloged meticulously, reflecting its rich history.
After India gained independence, the management of the temple and its treasures became a matter of state concern. The Odisha government has since taken steps to ensure the security and preservation of these invaluable items. The Ratna Bhandar was last opened in 1985 for an inventory check. The government intends to create a digital catalogue of the treasures, ensuring transparency and proper documentation. These treasures not only hold immense material value but also represent the cultural and spiritual heritage of Odisha.
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