Finance
The Jagannath Temple in Puri will close its doors to devotees at 1 p.m. on September 18 while the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) conducts a preliminary survey of the Ratna Bhandar, the temple’s treasure trove. The public darshan will be suspended to allow for the inspection.
Meanwhile, Dwaraphita niti will be performed at 2 am, Mangala Alati will be conducted at 3 am, and public darshan will be suspended from 1 pm onwards, according to the decision of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA).
Previously, all ornaments from the outer and inner Ratna Bhandar were relocated to the temporary strong room, as were the empty almirahs and chests, in accordance with the state government’s SOP. However, it was recommended that a survey be conducted utilizing cutting-edge technology prior to repair and conservation.
The ASI was asked to take care to ensure that there is no negative impact on the temple. The Chief Administrator has requested that ASI complete the Ratna Bhandar repair and conservation work as soon as possible following a comprehensive technical inspection with current technologies.
