Ratna Bhandar Ginti 2026: What Will Be Found Inside Jagannath Temple’s Secret Treasury After 48 Years?
The Ratna Bhandar Ginti at the sacred Jagannath Puri Temple is set to begin after nearly 48 years, marking one of the most significant administrative and spiritual exercises in recent decades. Devotees across India are closely watching this development as the temple authorities prepare for the detailed inventory of priceless jewels and ornaments.
Jagannath Puri Temple is one of the most famous temples of Hindus. It is situated in Puri, Odisha. Today, we discuss the historic Ratna Bhandar ceremony that is drawing national attention ahead of Ratha Jatra 2026.
Ratna Bhandar Ginti 2026 to Begin on March 25, 2026
The Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee (SJTMC) has officially decided to commence the inventory (Ratna Ginti) of the temple’s Ratna Bhandar (treasury) on March 25, 2026, starting between 12:12 pm and 1:45 pm.
This important Ratna Bhandar Ginti 2026 exercise, aimed at listing the valuables, will begin with the ‘Bahar Bhandar’.
The last inventory was conducted in 1978 and spanned over 70 days (between May 13 and July 23). Given the complexity of daily rituals, it is difficult to predict how long the upcoming inventory will take. If necessary, the committee may seek an extension from the High Court.
Background: What Was Found Earlier?
In 2011, a total of 522 silver ingots weighing 18 tonnes were found inside the mutt. The ingots were valued at ₹90 crore and are presently stored at the district armoury for security reasons, officials said.
Emar Mutt is located in the south-eastern corner of the Jagannath Temple in Puri, just outside the main temple complex. It was founded by philosopher-saint Ramanujacharya in 1050.
The discovery of such a large quantity of silver earlier has increased curiosity around the ongoing Ratna Bhandar Ginti.
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Repair Completed, Treasury Opened After Four Decades
The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) had, on July 7, announced that the ASI, the custodian of the temple, had completed the repair of the Ratna Bhandar. The treasury was opened in 2024 after four decades for renovation work and inventory-related matters.
It has been decided that the inventory of the Ratna Bhandar items will be held in phases, keeping an eye on rituals of the temple.
The Ratna Bhandar Ginti is expected to be conducted before the grand Ratha Yatra 2026, when lakhs of devotees visit Puri and offer donations in gold, silver, and cash.
Two Teams, RBI Oversight & Digitisation Plan
On February 16, the temple committee formed two teams — supervising and handling — to implement the exercise.
A 10-member panel, including gemologists, will oversee the categorisation process. The entire Ratna Bhandar Ginti will be digitised, with videography and oversight by RBI-nominated officials under a finalised SOP.
This structured and transparent approach aims to ensure accuracy and accountability in documenting the temple’s priceless ornaments.
Restrictions & High Court Deadline
Certain restrictions have been imposed to avoid inconvenience to devotees:
The High Court has directed the completion of the process within 90 days. However, considering the volume of ornaments and valuables, the committee may seek an extension if required.
Why Ratna Bhandar Ginti Matters in 2026
Jagannath Ratha Jatra, conducted every year, attracts massive crowds and generous donations. Many devotees offer gold and silver ornaments during the festival.
As this Ratna Bhandar Ginti 2026 is being conducted after 48 years, it has become a matter of spiritual curiosity and public interest. Many people were not aware that such an inventory had not been conducted since 1978.
This makes the Ratna Bhandar Ginti 2026 not just an administrative task, but a historic moment for devotees and temple authorities alike.
With the treasury reopening, digitisation, RBI oversight, and High Court monitoring, this ceremony is expected to set a new benchmark in temple administration.
What are your thoughts on the Ratna Bhandar Ginti 2026 after 48 years? Do you think more such historic temple inventories should be made public? Share your views in the comments below.
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