By Jasreet Kaur07, Mar 2025 08:00 AMjagranjosh.com
Do you know?
The Konark Sun Temple in Odisha is a 13th-century temple dedicated to the Sun God. Its chariot design with 24 wheels and 7 horses makes it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tap to read in detail.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was added to the list in 1984 because of its unique architectural beauty and cultural importance.
Dedication to the Sun God
It is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. The temple is designed to symbolise the chariot that carries the Sun God across the sky.
A Giant Chariot
The temple looks like a huge chariot with 24 wheels and 7 horses. Each wheel represents a day of the week, and the horses are symbolic of the movement of the sun.
Built by King Narasimhadeva I
King Narasimhadeva I built the temple in the 13th century. He built it as a symbol of power and devotion to the Sun God during the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
A Symbol of Protection and Prosperity
The temple was made to honor the Sun God and protect the kingdom. The king believed that the Sun God would bring prosperity and safeguard his kingdom through the temple.
Astronomical Alignment
The temple is aligned with the sun, so the sun’s rays shine on it at certain times. This alignment shows the advanced knowledge of astronomy and architecture of ancient India.
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