<h4>Overview of Puri Jagannath Temple's Ratna Bhandar</h4><p>The <strong>Odisha government</strong> recently undertook the significant step of unlocking the revered <strong>Ratna Bhandar</strong> of the <strong>12th-century Jagannath temple</strong> in <strong>Puri</strong>. This event occurred after a period of <strong>46 years</strong>, drawing considerable public and administrative attention.</p><div class="info-box"><strong>Location:</strong> Northern side of the <strong>Jagamohana</strong> (assembly hall of the temple)<br><strong>Significance:</strong> Contains priceless jewelry and treasures offered to the deities.</div><h4>What is the Ratna Bhandar?</h4><p>The <strong>Ratna Bhandar</strong> is essentially a valuable collection of treasures housed within the <strong>Jagannath Temple</strong> complex. It serves as the repository for precious ornaments and artifacts.</p><p>These treasures primarily comprise the priceless jewelry belonging to the sibling deities: <strong>Lord Jagannath</strong>, <strong>Lord Balabhadra</strong>, and <strong>Goddess Subhadra</strong>. The collection has been amassed over many centuries.</p><h4>Sources of Treasures</h4><p>The wealth within the <strong>Ratna Bhandar</strong> has been contributed by various sources throughout history. This includes offerings from former kings who patronized the temple, as well as numerous devotees from around the globe.</p><div class="key-point-box">The <strong>Ratna Bhandar</strong> is not just a vault of wealth but a symbol of devotion, historical patronage, and the enduring cultural legacy of the <strong>Jagannath Temple</strong>.</div><h4>Legal Framework for Management</h4><p>The management and records pertaining to the <strong>Ratna Bhandar</strong> are governed by specific legal provisions. The <strong>Records of Rights</strong> are created and maintained in accordance with the <strong>Puri Sri Jagannath Temple Act, 1952</strong>.</p><div class="exam-tip-box">For <strong>UPSC Prelims</strong>, remember the temple's age (<strong>12th-century</strong>), its location (<strong>Puri, Odisha</strong>), the deities, and the specific Act (<strong>Puri Sri Jagannath Temple Act, 1952</strong>). For <strong>Mains</strong>, consider the administrative and cultural implications of managing temple wealth.</div>