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| Konark sun temple,Odisha dailyartmagazine.com |
The Konark Sun Temple, constructed in the 13th century during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty, is one of India's greatest architectural achievements and a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 1994). Dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, this temple is a brilliant representation of the fusion of art, architecture, and religious devotion in ancient India. Its grand scale and intricate design symbolize Surya's chariot, drawn by seven horses, with 12 pairs of exquisitely carved wheels representing the months of the year and the cycles of time.
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| Konark sun temple dailyartmagazine.com |
Above image: In a historic move, In May 2020 the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) accepted a proposal to remove sand from inside the Konark Sun Temple, Odisha’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. About 117year ago the British filled the Jagamohan (assembly hall of the monument) with sand to save it from crumbling. The stand filling gave stuctural stability to the interior parts. Careful efforts were taken up with experts to open the interior parts.........
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| Sun God, Konark temple, dailyartmagazine.com |
The temple, like many other Hindu temples, is built on a high plinth to emphasize its holiness / sanctity. The roof and superstructure of the main sanctuary, that once reached a height of some 227 feet (69 m), no longer exists; it collapsed by the 19th century. for many reasons, poor upkeep and proximity to the seashore. The town’s name is derived from the Sanskrit words kona (“corner”) and arka (“sun”), a reference to the temple, that is dedicated to the Hindu sun god Surya.
Architectural and Astronomical Brilliance The Chariot Design: 01.The entire temple is designed as a gigantic chariot with 24 wheels, pulled by seven galloping horses. The 24 wheels, each about 9 feet 9 inches in diameter, have eight spokes each, which some believe correspond to the eight praharas (time segments) of a day. The wheels are not only decorative but also serve as accurate sundials, where time can be measured based on the shadows cast by the sun. 02. Symbolism of the Seven Horses: The seven horses pulling Surya’s chariot symbolize the seven days of the week, a recurring cosmic theme that links the temple’s architectural layout with the passage of time and the cyclical nature of life. The positioning of the temple is said to ensure that the first rays of the sun strike its entrance, creating a direct relationship with Surya.
Surya’s Positioning: The main sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha) was originally topped by a towering shikhara (spire), which unfortunately no longer exists today, having collapsed centuries ago. This sanctum once housed a grand statue of Surya. There are still three surviving statues of the Sun God, each positioned to face the three points where the sun rises in the morning, afternoon, and evening. These statues are situated to capture sunlight at specific times of the day, an engineering marvel in itself.
Magnetic Field Legend: One of the enduring legends surrounding the temple involves a massive magnet that was supposedly placed at the top of the shikhara, with iron plates between the stones. This magnet, according to folklore, created a magnetic field strong enough to make the central idol of Surya levitate within the sanctum. The British are said to have removed this magnet during the colonial era, claiming it interfered with maritime navigation, as its magnetic force disrupted the compasses of nearby ships. While the legend is debated, it has become an integral part of Konark's mystique.
Sun and Eclipse Connection: The alignment and design of the temple have deep astronomical significance. Konark was directly in the path of a total solar eclipse on February 16, 1980, leading many to speculate that the temple’s builders had knowledge of the movements of celestial bodies. The temple’s design, which captures sunlight at different times of the day, indicates an advanced understanding of astronomy in the 13th century.
Historical Facts
Destruction and Decline: Over the centuries, the temple faced damage from natural forces and invasions. It is believed that the temple’s decline began in the late 16th century during the reign of Mughal emperor Jahangir, whose forces partially destroyed the temple. Additionally, its proximity to the coast exposed it to saline air, which may have contributed to its erosion. By the 19th century, it had largely fallen into ruins, and much of the structure that remains today has undergone restoration.
European Rediscovery: European sailors referred to the temple as the Black Pagoda, as its darkened ruins were visible from the sea and served as a landmark for those navigating the dangerous coastline. In contrast, the Jagannath Temple in Puri was called the White Pagoda. Konark's rich heritage was rediscovered in earnest during British rule, leading to archaeological restoration efforts beginning in the 19th century. However, countless intricate statues and sculptures are missing. Reason: They were removed to other temples and museums for display throughout the 19th century.
Cultural and Artistic Legacy
Erotic Sculptures: One of the most distinctive features of the temple is its elaborately carved sculptures, which include not only depictions of gods, warriors, animals, and celestial beings, but also erotic scenes similar to those found in Khajuraho. These carvings are believed to symbolize mithuna, the union of the male and female, an essential aspect of Tantric traditions that celebrate the life-affirming aspects of nature and fertility.
Women’s Fashion and High Heels: The temple’s detailed stone sculptures offer a fascinating glimpse into the fashion of ancient Indian women. Remarkably, the carvings depict women wearing high-heeled footwear—evidence that this style, often thought to be a modern fashion trend, existed in India over 700 years ago. This insight into ancient attire and customs underscores the sophistication of the period's cultural expressions.
Konark Dance Festival: The Konark Dance Festival, held every December against the backdrop of the temple, celebrates classical Indian dance forms, with a special focus on Odissi, the traditional dance of Odisha. This festival is a vibrant celebration of India’s artistic and cultural heritage, attracting dancers and enthusiasts from across the world.
Konark in Popular Culture: Konark Sun Temple has inspired art, literature, and folklore throughout the centuries. One of India’s most celebrated poets, Rabindranath Tagore, once wrote about the temple, marveling at its beauty and reflecting on how it “speaks of the language of stone transcending time.” The temple is also featured on India’s currency, appearing on the reverse side of the 10-rupee note for many years, symbolizing its status as a national treasure.
Conservation Efforts
In modern times, the temple faces challenges due to environmental degradation and the wear of centuries. Conservation efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) aim to preserve what remains of this remarkable structure, although much of the original temple, including the shikhara, is lost. Restoration works are ongoing, focusing on preserving the intricate carvings and stabilizing the remaining portions of the temple for future generations.
Conclusion
The Konark Sun Temple is not just an architectural wonder but a testament to the ingenuity, artistic talent, and spiritual depth of the people who built it. From its cosmic symbolism and celestial alignments to the intricate carvings that adorn its walls, Konark stands as a monument that embodies the grandeur of medieval Indian architecture. Its unique fusion of mythology, astronomy, and artistry continues to captivate visitors, scholars, and devotees, making it a timeless symbol of India's rich cultural heritage.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Konark_Sun_Temple
https://www.britannica.com/place/Konark
https://www.navrangindia.in/2017/06/awe-inspiring-konark-sun-temple-and.html
http://www.thekonark.in/konarkwheel.html
http://www.industrytap.com/ancient-sun-temple-worlds-biggest-clock/18092
https://wn.com/750_year_old_sundial_at_konark,_india_moondial_too
https://www.hindufaqs.com/secret-sundial-konark-sun-temple-india
