PaperDabba News Desk: July 15, 2024
Discovery of Hidden Chambers in Puri Temple
The long-standing mystery of the Puri Jagannath Temple’s hidden treasure has finally ended. After 46 years, the doors of the secret chambers within the Ratna Bhandara (treasure house) have been opened. The initial inventory of precious jewels and artifacts began on the first day, with the counting process set to continue into the second day.
Precious Inventory Process
The committee in charge began the counting process but had to halt it temporarily due to time constraints. The items will be stored in teakwood boxes with metal linings for protection. The second day’s counting will resume under strict supervision to ensure accuracy. This meticulous process aims to compare the current inventory with old records, a task that may take significant time to complete.
The Historical Mystery
For decades, the contents of these chambers have been the subject of much speculation. Prime Minister Modi had promised to open these chambers during his election campaign, and now that promise has been fulfilled. The first chamber revealed an array of gold, silver, and precious gem-studded items. The complete inventory is expected to take considerable time, similar to the 72 days taken in 1978.
Committee Oversight
Justice Biswanath Rath led the opening of the chambers. The committee included temple EO Aravind Padi, Puri District Collector Siddharth Shankar Swain, and five temple priests. The process ensures transparency and proper documentation of the temple’s wealth.
Everyday and Festival Jewels
The Ratna Bhandara consists of three chambers. The first chamber houses everyday jewelry used for the deities. The second chamber contains festival adornments, while the third chamber is believed to contain immeasurable wealth stored in ancient wooden chests.
Lighting the Dark Chambers
The hidden chambers are shrouded in darkness, with no lighting inside. This has added to the challenge of documenting the items. Lokanath Swami oversees the temple’s treasures, ensuring their safety under the watchful eyes of goddess Vimala and Mahalaxmi, considered the temple’s protectors.
Meticulous Documentation
The chambers were opened on an auspicious day, marking the first time in 46 years. The administration has prepared new teakwood boxes with brass linings to preserve the ancient chests. These boxes will store the jewelry before they are transported to a substantial room for counting.
The opening of the Puri Jagannath Temple’s hidden treasure chambers marks a significant moment in history. The meticulous process of documenting the temple’s wealth ensures the preservation and transparency of this invaluable heritage.
