Bhubaneswar: The restoration work of the inner Ratna Bhandar of the Jagannath Temple in Puri is almost complete, with only the granite flooring of the inner chamber (Chatan) remaining.
The update was shared by Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), following a crucial Chhatisa Nijog meeting held on Saturday.
“As of April 25, 2025, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has carried out 194 hours and 5 minutes of restoration work inside the Ratna Bhandar,” Dr. Padhee informed. “The structural conservation is nearly finished and the pending granite flooring work in the inner chamber is expected to be completed within the next 2–3 days.”
Dr. Padhee also elaborated on the progress of the outer Ratna Bhandar (Bahara Bhandar), where repair and conservation works are actively underway.
“Five additional stainless steel box beams will be installed in the outer chamber, while nine beams have already been used inside. Khondalite stones will be used for the ongoing restoration,” he said.
A scientific assessment, including laser scanning and a survey by the CSIR–National Geophysical Research Institute (GPRI), has guided the restoration process.
“Wherever loose stones were identified, replacements have been made. So far, 277 stones have been used—148 in the inner Ratna Bhandar and 115 in the outer Amuha Deula,” he stated.
Dr. Padhee noted that several steps were found to have developed cracks. “These will be repaired methodically, brick by brick, using a scientific and aesthetically appropriate method. A chemical cleaning of the Amuha Deula exterior is also scheduled,” he added.
Due to upcoming religious observances such as the Chandan Yatra, Sana Yatra, Daitapati Prabesh, and Gupta Niti, restoration work will be paused during these rituals. “Post-Ratha Yatra, the remaining work will resume,” he said.
This year, the annual Ratha Yatra will be observed on June 27, with Niladri Bije scheduled for July 8. Preparation arrangements will commence on July 7. “Between June 28 and July 6, there will be ample time for continued restoration activity,” Dr. Padhee confirmed.
Meanwhile, Chhatisa Nijog chief Janardana Pattajoshi Mohapatra praised the progress of the restoration.
“The temple repair work began on December 17, 2024. With the blessings of Mahaprabhu, the work has been robust and beautifully executed,” he said.
