Wonders of India - Sun Temple, Konark, Orrissa

The Glorious Sun Temple

                        The glorious Sun Temple is also known with names of Konark, Arkakshetra, and Konaditya. This beautiful monument was built by the King Narasimhadeva in the thirteenth century is one of the grandest temples of India and was referred to as the Black Pagoda .The magnificent Sun Temple at Konark in Orissa is the zenith of Orissan temple architecture, and one of the most astonishing monuments representing religious architecture in the world. The temple was designed in the shape of a colossal chariot with seven horses and twenty four wheels, carrying the sun god, Surya, across the heavens. The black pagoda at Konarak is widely known not only for its architectural grandeur but also for the convolution and abundance of sculptural work. The entire temple has been conceived as a chariot drawn by seven horses marking the 7 days of the week. The huge 24 wheels, each about 10 feet in diameter, wonderfully carved and adorned, mark the hours of the day. It is a masterpiece of Orissa's medieval architecture.
                            

                All around the temple, there are various floral and geometric patterns. Around the base of the temple, and up the walls and roof, are carvings in the erotic style. There are images of animals, foliage, men, warriors on horses and other interesting patterns. There are three images of the Sun God, positioned to catch the rays of the sun at dawn, noon and sunset. The massive structure of the temple, now in ruins, sits in solitary splendor surrounded by the drifting sands. The ruins of this temple were excavated in late 19th century. Konark is also known as Konaditya. The name Konark is derived form the words Kona - Corner and Arka - Sun; it is situated on the north eastern corner of Puri or the Chakrakshetra. Konark is also known as Arkakshetra.

                        

                       This temple was visualize by the Ganga ruler Narasimha Deva but not able complete fully. It is said by the old people that the main idol of the Sun God on which the suns rays fall in the morning is said to have been removed by some Portuguese navigators. The temple now comprises only of the sabhamandap and the natamandir, the main temple was deteriorates down many years ago. It takes the form (Arka) of the chariot of Surya, the sun god, and is heavily decorated with stone carving. The entire complex was designed in the form of a huge chariot drawn by seven spirited horses on twelve pairs of exquisitely decorated wheels. The entrance is guarded by two lions, which are each shown crushing a war elephant. Each elephant in turn lies on top of a human body. The temple symbolizes the majestic stride of the Sun god.