Konark Sun Temple

About

Located in the Indian state of Odisha, the Konark Sun Temple is also known as Surya Deula or Surya Deul. Dedicated to the sun god Surya, this impressive temple is known for its majestic design and detailed carvings. The temple, dedicated to Surya and constructed in the 13th century during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, features a chariot with 24 wheels decorated with symbolic motifs and pulled by six stone horses.

Did you know?

The Konark Temple was erected by King Narasimha Deva I in 1244 as a shrine to Surya, the Hindu Sun God. Several ancient texts identify Konark as Surya’s holiest temple, which is likely why it was constructed there. UNESCO added it to its list of World Heritage Sites in 1984. Beautiful sculptures depicting ordinary life, animals, and sensuality are interspersed with religious symbolism in this ancient temple. Sundials on the temple’s wheels provide precise minute-by-minute timekeeping. The temple is known to European sailors as the “Black Pagoda,” in contrast to the “White Pagoda” of the Jagannath Temple in Puri.

Deities

The Hindu sun god Surya is the principal deity at the Konark Sun Temple. The temple complex also features statues and images of other Hindu gods and goddesses, including Vishnu, Shiva, Durga, Gajalakshmi, Parvati, Krishna, and Narasimha.

Location

The Puri area of Odisha, where the Konark Sun Temple may be seen, is on the eastern coast of India. It’s only about 65 kilometers from Bhubaneswar, the state capital, so tourists can easily make the trip.

Cultural & Economic Impact

The temple is widely recognized as an important part of India’s religious and cultural history, and as a masterpiece of Odisha-style building. The sculptures’ elaborate iconography, subject matter, and craftsmanship all speak to the region’s deep cultural roots. The temple has helped boost the regional economy by drawing visitors and worshippers.

Festivals

A large number of Hindus continue to make the journey to this temple every year for the Chandrabhaga Mela, which takes place somewhere in the month of February. Devotees celebrate the sun god Surya by immersing themselves in the Chandrabhaga River.

Facts

The Sanskrit words “Kona” (corner or angle) and “Arka” (the sun) form the basis of the name “Konark” for the temple.
Various Hindu sects are represented in the temple’s many ancillary shrines and monuments, such as the Mayadevi Temple and the Vaishnava Temple.
The water level has gone down since the temple was built near the mouth of the river Chandrabhaga.
The Archaeological Survey of India maintains the Konark Archaeological Museum, where visitors can see sculptures that fell from the temple.

Frequently Asked Questions { FAQs }

When was the Sun Temple of Konark constructed?

The temple was constructed in the early 1250s of the Common Era.

Why is it commonly referred to as the "Black Pagoda"?

Due to its dark look, European sailors gave the temple the nickname "Black Pagoda," in contrast to the "White Pagoda" given to the nearby Jagannath Temple in Puri.

What do the temple's wheels symbolize?

The temple's wheels function as sundials, allowing for precise minute-by-minute timekeeping.

The Konark Sun Temple is dedicated mostly to which god?

The Hindu sun god Surya is the major deity of the temple, while sculptures of other Hindu gods can also be found there.

What is the most important religious holiday observed at the temple?

Most visitors to the Konark Sun Temple visit during the month of February for the annual Chandrabhaga Mela.