Konark Sun Temple: Seven Wonders

Konark Sun Temple

The Sun Temple at Konark which has also been given another name Black Pagoda by European sailors is estimated to be built in 1250 by King Narsimhadev of Eastern Ganga dynasty. It is situated in Orissa. The Temple was built in the shape of gigantic chariot having 12 gigantic wheels and 7 pair of horses to pull. The whole temple is a depiction of the chariot of Sun. the carvings on the temple are highly detailed and beautiful though most of the temple is ruined by now because of some unknown reasons. The original temple had a very high vimana which is supposed to be 70 meter tall, most of which has fallen. Now only the Jagmohana of the temple has survived standing to the height of 30 meters.
In 17th century the then Raja of Khudra shifted the Sun idol from Konark to Jagannathpuri. Many generations of kings of Khudra have helped in prevention of the temple artifacts from ruining by making their use in making Jagannathpuri. Finally the worship in Sun temple has been ceased in last of 18th century.
The Temple was built in traditional Kalinga architecture and the temple entrance is carefully oriented towards East so that first rays of the Sun strike the entrance of the Temple.
In 1984 the structure was declared as World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It has also been included in Seven Wonders of India.

This Article comes under the heading: Seven Wonders of India

Credits: Image Source- Google Images

Comments

  1. Dimpy RoyThursday, March 12, 2015 at 11:55:00 AM GMT+5:30

    Thanks for sharing. Displayer of the ethnic Oriyan architecture, the Sun Temple becomes a beautiful backdrop to this fair. If all these are not enough, you are bound to love a long walk on the beach nearby. Explore more about Konark Sun Temple.

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