Konark Sun Temple

 

Konark Sun Temple is a brilliantly and finely carved temple in Orissa that is associated with the 13th century and is considered to be an eminent world heritage sight. The significant ruler who brought this temple into existence was the ruler named as Narsimhadev of the Ganga dynasty. The Konark village, which is situated not very far from Bay of Bengal’s shoreline, receives the very sacred essence of this temple. The noticeable style and the very design of the temple delineate the picture of a big chariot, which is actually the vehicle of the Sun God. Moreover, you also notice seven horses placed at the front of the chariot, which stands erectly over twelve pairs of wheels, beautifully engraved in stone. All you observe and get to know about the Sun Temple Konark is that the temple in every sense suggests the movement and the dynamic nature of time. The seven horses quite effectively relate to the seven week days. In addition to this, there is much more that you behold as you visit the Konark.

Puri Resorts consists of the Hall of Offerings, close to which you have the entrance gate to this temple. This particular area of the temple was used for the enactment of different dances that are properly displayed over the walls. You also recognize a pyramid designed roof as well as the sanctuary tower in this temple. In addition to this, you also find the fascinating sculpture of the Shiva Natraja in the popular dancing pose. The main attraction of this Temple is the most astounding statue of the Sun god that is composed in green colored chlorite stone. This stature can be visited by climbing up a staircase. However, the initially constructed image or statue of Surya god can be found while going downstairs.

Konark Temple quite properly showcases an assortment of various images and fine sculptures consisting of erotic images that exactly resemble the images placed over the walls of the Khajuraho temples. In addition to the sculptures of the interior walls, you have numerous pictorial designs related to the images of various gods and goddesses accompanied by an array of mythological characters. Moreover, you also spot images of people on their hunting expedition as well as military men nicely conducting their duties and these images are related to Konark’s relation with Africa in that period.

You would also definitely be more than pleased to know about the legendry associations of this temple, one of which tells us that the temple derived its very eminence and power through two magical magnets placed in the frame of the towers. It was believed that these towers led to the destruction of a number of ships due to the inherent magnetic properties into the tower. Due to this reason, this temple received it another name, Black Pagoda, which was kept by the European mariners. In every way, this temple is really worth visiting in order to get more familiar with our cultural heritage as well as our religion. So, do come to Konark in Orissa to explore this astounding temple.