Sun Temple, Konark

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Sun Temple, Konark

 

The black Pagoda, as it was called by the European sailors, it was built in 13th

century by Raja Narasimhadeva along the shores of Bay of Bengal. But now sea has

moved two km away from the temple. Many myths and legends surrounds this

crowning glory of Orissa. This exquisite specimen of Oriyan craftsmanship is

poetry in stone and is included in the world heritage monuments. The Natya

Mandir or the dancing hall of Sun temple is the only remanants of a glorious

past which this palce was a witness. The whole structure in form of collosal

chariot of the Sun. The chariot is drawn by seven horses and 24 wheels

symbolising time.

 

The main tower of Konark stands 227 feets high superceding both Lingaraja and

Jaganath temples. The temple is a brilliant chronicle in stone, with thousands

of images including deities, the Surasundaris, heavenly damsels and dancers and

other scenes from courtly life.

 

The intricate carvings on the walls and wheels of the chariot are unprecedented

in history. Everyday the Sun God rises from the lap of the blue ocean and casts

his first gentle rays on the sanctum sanctorum and then circles the temple

during its course of the day, illuminating three magnificent images of the

moring sun, the mid-day sun and the setting sun. The majestic sun temple

silhouettted against the setting sun remains indelibly etched in the spectators'

memory.

 

 

 

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