Puri's Jagannath Temple Restricts Devotee Access for Valuables Shift

Authorities at Puri's 12th-century Jagannath temple have restricted access for devotees on Thursday, as valuables from the Ratna Bhandar are moved to a temporary strong room. This measure supports the Archaeological Survey of India's (ASI) conservation efforts inside the inner chamber, which was reopened on July 14 after 46 years.

According to Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) chief Arabinda Padhee, only authorized persons and servitors will be allowed entry past 8 AM on Thursday. The action is part of the planned reopening of Ratna Bhandar's inner chamber for inventory and structural repairs.

Devotees can still view the deities as they remain on their chariots outside the temple. The administration of the temple, under the state's law department, emphasizes that an inventory will begin post-repair work. The entire process, following state SOPs, includes video-recorded checks by ASI experts to ensure structural stability.

(With inputs from agencies.)