Reopening of Jagannath temple's treasury after 46 years reveals precious ornaments, sparks travel interest to Puri
After 46 long years, the treasury of the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri has finally been opened in a highly anticipated and elaborate ceremony. In the presence of numerous officials and devotees, the ancient locks were broken, revealing the precious ornaments of the temple's three revered deities.
In a momentous event that captivated the hearts of devotees and history enthusiasts alike, the Ratna Bhandar, the treasury of the 12th-century Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri, was reopened on Sunday afternoon after 46 long years.
The elaborate and reverent process, which included breaking the ancient locks, unveiled the precious ornaments of the sibling deities¡ªJagannath, Subhadra, and Balabhadra¡ªdonated by devotees and erstwhile kings over the centuries.
The Ratna Bhandar is divided into two sections: the outer chamber (Bahara Bhandar) and the inner chamber (Bhitara Bhandar).?
The Odisha government had set up an 11-member committee to oversee the reopening.?
Before accessing the treasury, the ritual of 'Agnya' was performed to seek divine approval.
While the outer chamber is occasionally opened for rituals like the Suna Besha (golden attire) during the annual Rath Yatra, the inner chamber had not been inventoried since 1978.?
Following the reopening, officials meticulously moved the ornaments to a temporary strongroom. The locks of the inner chamber had to be broken in the presence of a magistrate, as the keys available were ineffective.
This historic event has piqued the interest of many, putting the spotlight back on Puri, a city rich in culture and history. For those inspired to visit, here¡¯s how you can travel to Puri and other attractions you shouldn't miss.
Travelling to Puri
By Air: The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 60 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Puri.
By Train: Puri is well-connected by rail to major cities across India. The Puri Railway Station is just 2 kilometers from the Jagannath Temple.
By Road: Puri is accessible by road via NH316. Regular buses and private taxis are available from Bhubaneswar and other nearby cities.
Must-Visit Sites in and around Puri
Shree Jagannath Temple: The highlight is the Jagannath Temple itself, a marvel of Kalinga architecture and the spiritual hub of Puri.
Puri Beach: Relax on the golden sands of Puri Beach, which is also famous for its annual Puri Beach Festival.
Konark Sun Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 13th-century temple about 35 kilometers from Puri is renowned for its intricate stone carvings and chariot-shaped architecture.?
Chilika Lake: Asia¡¯s largest brackish water lagoon, located about 50 kilometers from Puri, is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers.
Gundicha Temple: Known as the Garden House of Jagannath, it plays a crucial role during the Rath Yatra when the deities are brought here.
Raghurajpur Artist Village: Just 14 kilometers from Puri, this village is famous for its Pattachitra paintings and offers a glimpse into the traditional art forms of Odisha.
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