Puri King Advocates for Unhurried, Scientific Inventory of Jagannath Temple's Ratna Bhandar
In a significant development concerning the sacred treasures of the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Gajapati Dibyasingha Deb, the Puri king and chairman of the temple's managing committee, has strongly emphasized that no rigid deadline should be imposed on the ongoing inventory of the Ratna Bhandar. This critical process resumed on Wednesday, marking a continuation of work that began on March 25 after an astonishing gap of 48 years.
Historical Context and Current Process
The last comprehensive inventory of the Ratna Bhandar was conducted between May 13 and July 23, 1978, spanning a total of 72 days. Deb highlighted that those currently engaged in the inventory should be granted sufficient time to ensure absolute accuracy and uphold the highest possible standards. "They should not be rushed. They should be given ample time. The inventorisation must be meticulous and scientifically sound," he asserted after personally inspecting the work inside the Ratna Bhandar.
Currently, the valuables stored in the outer chamber of the Ratna Bhandar are being digitally catalogued using advanced technological tools. "As per the government-approved standard operating procedure, jewellery is being documented with advanced tools, including 3D mapping and videography," Deb explained, underscoring the modern approach being adopted for this ancient treasure trove.
Phased Inventory Schedule and Government Plans
The second phase of this monumental inventory is scheduled to continue until April 11, resume on April 13, and then proceed again from April 16 to 18. Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan stated that the government aims to complete the entire inventory process by the Debasnana Purnima festival on June 29. "This month, we plan to carry out the inventory for 10 to 12 days," he mentioned, adding that the newly compiled list is being meticulously cross-verified against earlier historical records to ensure consistency and accuracy.
Detailed Breakdown of 1978 Inventory Findings
The 1978 audit revealed an extensive collection of precious items, providing a fascinating glimpse into the temple's wealth:
- Total Gold Items: 454 pieces weighing 12,838 bharis (where one bhari equals approximately 10 to 11 grams)
- Total Silver Items: 293 pieces weighing 22,153 bharis
The inventory further detailed the distribution between the inner and outer chambers:
- Inner Chamber Contents:
- 367 gold ornaments, including exquisite necklaces, chains, and crowns, totaling 4,364 bharis
- 231 silver items weighing 14,878 bharis
- Outer Chamber Contents:
- 87 gold items weighing 8,474 bharis
- 62 silver items weighing 7,274 bharis
This renewed inventory effort represents a crucial step in preserving and documenting the cultural and religious heritage of the Jagannath Temple, with authorities committed to a thorough and unhurried process that respects both historical significance and modern scientific standards.
