SJTA Urges ASI to Expedite Ratna Bhandar Repairs Ahead of Rath Yatra

PURI : The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has urged the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to accelerate the repair and conservation of the Ratna Bhandars — the sacred treasure chambers of the Shree Jagannath Temple — during the upcoming Rath Yatra, scheduled from June 28 to July 6.

In a formal letter to the Director General of ASI, SJTA Chief Administrator Dr. Arvind Kumar Padhi stressed the urgency of completing the vital conservation work before or during the Car Festival, citing the immense religious and architectural importance of the Ratna Bhandar. Dr. Padhi requested that the ASI prioritize the work and ensure close supervision by a senior official such as a Deputy Director General or a Director-level officer during the period.

Expressing gratitude for the ASI’s ongoing efforts, including the recent replacement of khondalite stone near the Aruna Stambha and improvements around the Simhadwar, Dr. Padhi acknowledged the agency’s progress in safeguarding temple heritage. He also highlighted several initiatives in coordination with ASI, including the newly constructed ramp at the North Gate for differently-abled devotees, complying with Supreme Court directives.

Further, a revised design has been submitted for air-conditioning the Natamandap, with ASI’s approval awaited. Discussions have also been held with ASI consultants on illuminating the subsidiary Parswa Debata temples, for which clearance has been granted. Once a detailed report is received, tenders for the project will be floated, Dr. Padhi confirmed.

In view of the ongoing Anasara period — when the deities remain secluded for recuperation — Dr. Padhi held meetings with Daita servitors to ensure that key rituals like Pahandi (the ceremonial procession of the deities) are conducted seamlessly. Four dedicated servitor groups have been formed for the deities — Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and Lord Sudarshan — based on the Record of Rights and recommendations from a three-member panel.

Two important rituals — Netrotsav and Nabajouban Darshan — will be observed on the same day this year, necessitating heightened coordination. Dr. Padhi emphasized strict adherence to schedules, smooth movement of deities, proper crowd management, and unhindered distribution of Mahaprasad.

He also issued a stern warning against unauthorized individuals climbing the chariots or using mobile phones during the procession, asserting that violators would face legal action.

Referring to a recent security breach during Snana Purnima, where an individual touched the deities, Dr. Padhi said CCTV footage is being reviewed, and appropriate legal steps will be taken once the person is identified.

In conclusion, Dr. Padhi requested senior ASI officials to visit Puri during the Rath Yatra to inspect ongoing conservation work and ensure its quality meets prescribed standards.