The revered Jagannath Temple in Puri is set to witness a historic moment as the priceless ornaments and valuables of Lord Jagannath will be returned to their original home, the Ratna Bhandar, on September 23, 2025. The decision comes after the completion of extensive repair work on the temple’s treasury, which had been closed for over four decades. The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has meticulously planned the transfer to ensure the sanctity and security of the sacred items.

In July 2024, the temple authorities temporarily relocated the deity’s jewellery and precious items, stored in iron chests and almirahs, to a secure facility within the temple premises. This move was necessitated by the reopening of the Ratna Bhandar for essential repairs, undertaken by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The ASI successfully completed the restoration of the 12th-century shrine’s treasury, paving the way for the valuables to be reinstated in their rightful place.

SJTA chief administrator Arabinda Padhee announced that the transfer of Lord Jagannath’s treasures will occur during an auspicious window between 7:17 AM and 11:17 AM on September 23. “The process will be conducted with utmost reverence, ensuring that temple rituals remain unaffected,” Padhee told reporters. However, public darshan will be regulated on the day to facilitate a smooth operation. If the shifting extends beyond September 23, it will continue on September 24, with a magistrate overseeing the process to ensure transparency and order.

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Once the ornaments are securely placed in the Ratna Bhandar, the chambers will be sealed in the presence of designated officials, and the key will be deposited in the district treasury. The temple management committee, chaired by Gajapati Maharaja Dibya Singha Deb, the titular king of Puri, will finalize the inventory of the valuables, ensuring a thorough record of the sacred treasures.

In a related development, Odisha’s Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan revealed that Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has approved relocating the temple’s donation box, or ‘Hundi,’ from the Nata Mandap. This move aims to streamline the row darshan system, enhancing the devotee experience. The date for shifting the Hundi will be finalized in consultation with the temple administration and the Puri district collector.

As these changes unfold, devotees eagerly await the restoration of Lord Jagannath’s treasures to their sacred abode, marking a significant chapter in the temple’s storied legacy.

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