Ratna Bhandar Restoration at Shree Jagannath Temple Completed After 95 Days of Intensive Work

Puri: In a major milestone for heritage conservation in Odisha, the much-awaited restoration of the Ratna Bhandar—the sacred treasure chamber of the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri—has been successfully completed under the careful supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The announcement was made on Monday by Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), during a media briefing.

The comprehensive restoration, which began on September 18, 2024, lasted 95 days, amounting to a total of 332 hours and 47 minutes of precise and methodical repair work. Both the bhitara (inner) and bahara (outer) chambers of the centuries-old Ratna Bhandar underwent structural repairs to ensure their long-term safety and stability.

Before the restoration, laser scanning and other advanced diagnostic techniques were used to assess the structure’s condition. The Hyderabad-based CSIR–National Geophysical Research Institute conducted a detailed technical survey, including radar penetration and laser scanning, based on a fresh Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) issued by the state government.

“The restoration focused on preserving the architectural integrity of the chambers while ensuring safety. Sessions varied between two to 18 hours daily, depending on the technical demands,” said Dr. Padhee.

The restoration involved the repair and reinforcement of damaged stones using grouting and granite techniques. A total of 15 stainless steel supports were installed to fortify the structure. As part of the upgrade, the 200-year-old outer iron door of the vault was replaced with a new stainless steel door, and the inner door will be silver-plated after structural enhancements.

Dr. Padhee also shared that the vault doors and chambers were opened on July 14, 2024, as per the government-approved SoP. Between July and September 2023, ornaments, blank trunks, and iron chests were carefully shifted from the Ratna Bhandar to secure temporary strong rooms within the temple premises.

The first phase of the restoration was carried out from December 17, 2024, to April 28, 2025, followed by a second phase that began on June 28 and concluded on July 15. The entire restoration process was conducted with meticulous attention to the sanctity, history, and cultural significance of the site.

While the restoration marks a critical achievement, Dr. Padhee noted that the inventory of ornaments and precious jewellery will be undertaken only after the valuables are shifted back to the Ratna Bhandar.

The completion of the project is seen as a significant step in safeguarding the spiritual and historical legacy of the Shree Jagannath Temple, one of India’s most revered and ancient religious institutions.