Puri Jagannath Temple’s Ratna Bhandar

Puri Jagannath Temple’s Ratna Bhandar

Sub : History

Sec : Art and Culture

Context: Recently the Odisha government formed a new panel to monitor the opening of Puri Jagannath Temple’s Ratna Bhandar (Treasury) by dissolving the old panel.

What is Ratna Bhandar(Treasury)

• Jagannath Temple’s Ratna Bhandar
  • The Ratna Bhandar of the Jagannath Temple houses precious ornaments dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra.
  • These ornaments have been donated by devotees and erstwhile kings over centuries, making them historically significant.
• Structure of the Ratna Bhandar
  • The Ratna Bhandar consists of two chambers:
    • Bhitar Bhandar (Inner Chamber): This chamber has not been opened for the past 38 years.
    • Bahara Bhandar (Outer Chamber): Ornaments are regularly fetched from this chamber for use in rituals and festivals.
• Current Issues and Demands
  • Demand for Opening: There is a growing demand to open the Ratna Bhandar due to concerns about the structural integrity of the inner chamber.
  • Reasons for Concern: Apprehensions about cracks in the walls of the inner chamber have prompted fears that these structural issues could jeopardise the safety of the priceless ornaments stored within.
• Involvement of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
  • Role of ASI: The Archaeological Survey of India, which oversees the temple’s preservation, has requisitioned access to the Ratna Bhandar.
  • Purpose: ASI aims to assess, repair, and conserve the chamber to ensure the safety and preservation of both the structural integrity and the valuable ornaments.
• Significance and Cultural Importance
  • Cultural Heritage: The ornaments stored in the Ratna Bhandar represent not only religious significance but also cultural and historical heritage.
  • Preservation Efforts: Opening and repairing the Ratna Bhandar are seen as crucial steps to safeguard this heritage for future generations.

What are the Key Facts about Jagannath Temple?

• Introduction to Jagannath Temple
  • Location: The Jagannath Temple is located in Puri, Odisha, India.
  • Deities: It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath (Krishna), accompanied by his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.
• Historical Background
  • Foundation: The temple dates back to the 12th century and is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site.
  • Architectural Style: Built in the Kalinga style of architecture, known for its pyramid-like spire (shikhar) and intricate carvings.
• Structure and Layout
  • Main Temple: The main temple structure, called the “Deula”, houses the sanctum sanctorum where the deities are enshrined.
  • Surrounding Complex: The temple complex is enclosed by a high fortified wall known as the “Meghanada Pacheri”.
• Rituals and Festivals
  • Rath Yatra: The annual Rath Yatra (chariot festival) is the most famous festival, where the deities are placed on grand chariots and pulled through the streets of Puri.
  • Daily Rituals: Elaborate rituals are performed daily, including offering of food (bhog), aarti, and various sevas (services) to the deities.
• Administration and Custodianship
  • Administration: The temple is managed by a body known as the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA).
  • Custodianship: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) plays a role in the preservation and conservation of the temple’s architectural heritage.