Puri, Sept. 11 (UDN): The inventory of the precious ornaments and valuables stored inside the Ratna Bhandar of Puri Srimandir will be prepared on the basis of the inventory record compiled in 1978, Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan said on Thursday.
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The minister clarified that while the entire inventory process is being conducted with transparency and detailed documentation, the final inventory list will not be released in the public domain.
1978 Record to Serve as Reference
According to Harichandan, officials will use the 1978 inventory as the reference document while counting and verifying the valuables currently stored in the Ratna Bhandar.
Once the exercise is completed, a fresh inventory record will be prepared and preserved for future reference.
The minister said the process involves detailed documentation of rare and valuable ornaments, many of which feature precious gemstones such as pearls and rubies.
3D Mapping, Photography Underway
To ensure comprehensive documentation, authorities are undertaking three-dimensional mapping, photography and videography of the valuables.
The inventory is expected to continue for several weeks, taking into account the temple’s extensive ritual schedule. Officials expect the exercise to continue after Durga Puja and be completed before the month of Margashira.
Why Will the List Not Be Made Public?
Explaining the government’s decision, Harichandan said the new inventory record would be preserved in the same manner as the document prepared in 1978.
He said the record would remain securely preserved for decades and could be accessed by authorised government authorities whenever required.
The minister also cautioned against treating the inventory as material for public circulation or social media content, citing the sensitive nature of the Ratna Bhandar and the temple’s established traditions.
Temple Tradition Cited
Harichandan further said the inventory is closely linked to the confidential traditions and rituals of Lord Jagannath. Access to the Ratna Bhandar remains restricted, and unauthorised entry is not permitted.
He maintained that making details of the inventory publicly available would not be consistent with the long-standing traditions associated with the temple.
The government, he said, will ensure that the complete record is properly documented, preserved and deposited with the appropriate authorities for future reference.
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