Konark Sun Temple
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has prohibited tourists from entering the 'Nata Mandap' of the Konark Sun Temple in Odisha's Puri district.
About Konark Sun Temple
The Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century Hindu temple in Odisha, India, dedicated to the sun god, Surya. Built during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty around 1250 CE, the temple was designed in the shape of a colossal chariot. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture.
Architectural features
- The temple's design is rich with symbolism.
- The chariot: The temple is famously shaped like a giant chariot for the sun god, Surya.
- Wheels as sundials: It has 12 pairs of intricately carved stone wheels, representing the 12 months of the Hindu calendar. The spokes of these wheels can be used as sundials to tell the time of day.
- Horses: Seven carved horses pull the chariot, symbolizing the seven days of the week and the sun's movement across the sky.
- Key structures: While the original main sanctum (vimana) is in ruins, the audience hall (jagamohana) and dance hall (natamandira) still stand.
- Black Pagoda: European sailors once referred to it as the "Black Pagoda" because of its dark color, using it as a landmark for navigation in the Bay of Bengal.
Intricate carvings and sculptures
The temple is renowned for its detailed and sophisticated stone carvings that narrate various aspects of life during its time.
- Divine figures: Sculptures of Hindu deities, including Surya, Vishnu, and Durga, adorn the walls. The three main statues of Surya show him at different times of day—morning, mid-day, and evening.
- Daily and secular life: The carvings depict scenes of royal life, musicians, dancers, warriors, hunting, and everyday activities.
- Erotic art: The temple is also known for its explicit erotic sculptures, which symbolize fertility and spiritual liberation.
Historical events and current status
The temple is an important historical monument, though it has seen significant damage over the centuries.
- Damaged and restored: The main sanctum collapsed sometime between the 16th and 19th centuries, but conservation efforts, particularly during the British colonial period, stabilized the remaining structure.
- Cause of damage: The reasons for its destruction are debated. Theories include structural weaknesses, natural disasters, and attacks by armies during invasions.
- UNESCO site: Due to its cultural and historical importance, the Konark Sun Temple was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984.
- Konark Dance Festival: The annual Konark Dance Festival is held in December, featuring classical Indian dance performances.
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