Justice Rath Unveils Tech-Driven Plan to Address Ratna Bhandar Concerns

Puri: A new strategy for inventorying Puri Srimandir’s Ratna Bhandar has been announced by Justice Biswanath Rath, chair of the high-level oversight committee.

Following a key meeting in Puri, Justice Rath revealed plans to prioritize the temple’s structural integrity and employ cutting-edge technology to address concerns about the treasury.

The committee has decided to empty the Ratna Bhandar completely before initiating repairs, a departure from the original standard operating procedure. This involves relocating all cupboards and chests to a designated room selected by temple administrators, with preservation measures in place as needed.

State-of-the-art, non-destructive inspection tools will be utilized to assess the Ratna Bhandar’s condition. Any necessary repairs will be based on these findings, with inventorying to follow once restoration work is complete.

The committee will recommend these changes to the managing committee for inclusion in the SOP, pending approval from the Odisha government.

Justice Rath asserted that funding would not be an obstacle and called for government consultation with the Archaeological Survey of India, citing successful similar projects at other temples.

He also stressed the importance of stakeholder engagement, including servitors, to ensure the smooth continuation of rituals throughout the process.