New Delhi: After years of wait, tomorrow, July 14, will be a historic day when the Ratna Bhandar of Puri Jagannath Temple will be opened. The last inventory of Ratna Bhandar was held in 1978, almost 46 years back. A 16-member committee, led by retired high court judge Biswanath Rath, will oversee the inventory of the treasures inside the treasury. The excitement for the Ratna Bhandar’s opening is palpable, but so is the concern about the possibility of snakes inside. Let’s delve into the mystery and discover if the Puri Ratna Bhandar harbours snakes or if it is a myth.
Puri Jagannath Temple Ratna Bhandar: Are there snakes inside the bhandar?
According to locals, the Burmese hill snakes guard the wealth here. Legend has it that snakes guard precious gold ornaments belonging to Lord Jagannath and other deities in the Ratna Bhandagaram in Puri.
A report in the Times of India reveals that the temple committee is taking proactive measures to address these concerns. They are searching for ‘skilled snake charmers’ who will be deployed in the Ratna Bhandar when the Bhitara Bhandar, or the secret chamber, is opened on Sunday, July 14, for the first time since 1985. In addition to the snake charmers, a team of doctors will also be on standby, ready to handle any emergencies. These preparations should reassure everyone that the committee is taking every possible step to ensure a safe and successful opening.
A servitor, Harekrushna Mahapatra, said, “Since it is an age-old temple, there are small holes and cracks in several places. There is a possibility of snakes slithering into Ratna Bhandar through holes.” His remarks were based on the sightings of snakes in the Jagannath Temple’s periphery during the recent Jagannath Heritage Corridor Project work.
As per an India Today report, Bhaskar Mishra, a former temple administrator, said news about snakes is just rumours, and there is nothing like this in the Ratna Bhandar. He further junks all claims of serpents guarding the Bhitara Bhandar.
The truth about the snakes can only be revealed once the chamber is opened, but what truly matters is the long-awaited and significant event of the Ratna Bhandar’s opening. This event holds immense cultural and religious importance and is a momentous occasion for the Puri Jagannath Temple and its devotees.
Do snakes protect the wealth of ancient temples?
Snakes are highly important in Hindu culture and have many meanings. They are not just regarded as animals but a sign of powerful symbols representing eternal life, strength and the basic elements of nature.
The idea that snakes safeguard hidden treasures is a captivating myth that transcends various cultures and geographical locations. While this legend is deeply entrenched in Indian culture, it is not unique to India alone. Many cultures worldwide share similar stories, emphasising a universal fascination with the mysterious and the unknown.
In India, narratives about snakes, particularly cobras, protecting vast amounts of gold and precious jewels are widespread. These stories often depict serpents as guardians of hidden wealth, concealed in ancient temples, caves, and beneath sacred trees.
The long-lasting symbol of serpents protecting valuable items can be understood differently. Even in present-day society, the tale of serpents protecting riches continues to be intriguing. Accounts of finding hidden treasures defended by snakes frequently go viral on social platforms, merging age-old legends with modern-day fascination.
Note: The legend of snakes guarding treasures is a captivating and enduring tale spanning different cultures and periods. It captures our fascination with mysteries and the allure of hidden wealth. Although these stories originate from mythology, they still inspire wonder and curiosity in people worldwide.
After 46 years, the Ratna Bhandar of Puri Jagannath Temple will be opened tomorrow, Sunday, July 14. According to locals, there have been hissing sounds from the Bhitara Bhandar, the secret chamber. Will there be rumours of snakes? Let us find out if it is a truth or a myth and if snakes protect the wealth of ancient temples in India or worldwide. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
