The mystery surrounding the existence of a secret tunnel within the Ratna Bhandar of the historic Jagannath temple in Puri may soon be resolved as the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) gears up for a thorough investigation using advanced laser scanning technology. The Ratna Bhandar, a revered treasury within the 12th-century temple complex, has long been rumored to contain hidden chambers possibly housing precious jewels.
Gajapati Maharaja Divya Singh Deb expressed openness to employing modern technology to explore these speculations. After a comprehensive examination, the temple administration planned to hand over both the outer and inner chambers of the Ratna Bhandar for repairs to ASI, shared a temple official.
However, Justice Biswanath Rath, former judge of Orissa High Court, who previously led a recent seven-hour inspection of the inner chamber along with a team of experts, offered insights contrary to local beliefs. During the inspection, no evidence of any tunnel-like structure was found, clarified Justice Rath, cautioning against misinformation.
Committee member Durga Dasmohapatra added that no secret chambers or tunnels were found within the treasury. The Ratna Bhandar is about 20 feet high and 14 feet long. While there were minor deficiencies such as fallen stones and wall cracks, the structure’s integrity remains intact, he further clarified.
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