Banke Bihari Temple’s Treasury Reopened Amid Tight Security After 54 Years

In a significant moment, the long-sealed Toshkhana (treasure chamber) of the revered Thakur Shri Banke Bihari Temple in Uttar Pradesh’s Vrindavan was opened after 54 years on Saturday on the occasion of Dhanteras.

The treasury’s reopening took place under the supervision of a High Powered Committee, following a Supreme Court directive.

According to Mathura Circle Officer Sandeep Singh, the entire operation was conducted amid tight security and videography. Only committee members authorised by the court were allowed entry. To address potential risks from the long-sealed chambers, fire and forest department teams were deployed. A specialised backpack fire extinguisher, designed to cut off oxygen supply to contain any fire, was also on standby.

“The reopening of the gates of Temple treasury, following a Supreme Court order, facilitated by a High Court committee members, the whole process will be videographed, and various security measures have been taken, including the presence of fire and forest department teams,” Singh said as quoted by news agency ANI.

#WATCH | Mathura, UP: Banke Bihari’s treasury opened after 54 years on Dhanteras, A.D.M. Mathura, Pankaj Kumar Verma says, “… Treasury doors of the temple to be opened today, all the necessary arrangements have been made, only those authorised will be present inside the… pic.twitter.com/h925AVfOnK

— ANI (@ANI) October 18, 2025

Before entering the treasure room, officials performed traditional rituals by lighting a lamp at the entrance. Following this, the search team—which includes the Civil Judge, City Magistrate, SP City, CO Vrindavan, CO Sadar, and four Goswamis—entered the chamber wearing protective masks.

Temple caretaker Ghanshyam Goswami confirmed that four nominated Goswamis, alongside judicial and administrative officers, were permitted into the treasury.

“Banke Bihari’s treasury has been opened after 54 years on Dhanteras. Those who belong to the High Powered Committee are allowed entry to the treasury. Apart from judicial and administrative officers, four nominated Goswamis reserve the right…” he said as quoted by the news agency.

#WATCH | Mathura: Banke Bihari’s treasury to be opened after 54 years on Dhanteras, Temple caretaker, Ghanshyam Goswami says, “… Banke Bihari’s treasury will be opened today after 54 years on Dhanteras… Those who belong to the High Powered Committee should be allowed entry to… pic.twitter.com/RHet0dUu6V

— ANI (@ANI) October 18, 2025

During the initial search, the team discovered a chest and an urn inside the chamber. The treasure is expected to include gold and silver ornaments, diamond jewellery, and other valuable artefacts.

The Banke Bihari temple treasury, located directly beneath the Lord’s throne in the sanctum sanctorum, was last opened in 1971 under the supervision of then Mandir committee president. The chamber is believed to contain ornaments of gold and silver, golden urns, and silver coins that date back around 160 years.

The special committee is expected to check the inventory and document the ornaments, as well as other artefacts, after the reopening of the treasury.

According to historical details, the treasury was built in 1864 as per Vaishnav traditions. The treasury contains donations from the Bharatpur, Karauli and Gwalior kingdoms. The treasury also houses sealed documents, gifts, letters of appreciation and land deeds of donated buildings and fields.

Banke Bihari Temple

Built in 1862, the Shri Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan is one of the most revered and famous temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is managed by Shebaits, a hereditary priesthood that oversees daily rituals and temple administration.

It holds immense significance for devotees due to its unique customs, rich history, and the belief that Lord Krishna, in the form of Banke Bihari, directly interacts with his devotees.

Banke Bihari literally means “bent in three places”. The idol of Lord Krishna stands in the Tribhanga posture, a graceful threefold bending form, which is characteristic of Lord Krishna.

(With inputs from agencies)