Historical Importance of Konark Sun Temple

Renowned as Black Pagoda, Konark Sun Temple is the 13^th century temple and its pre historic wall is recognised by UNESCO by announcing
it as world heritage site. Beside that the temple has been recognise by NDTV as the seven wonders of the nation.

Located at the site of Konark in the Indian state of Odisha the temple is dedicated to the lord of sun and its holy chariot which has been engraved to support the plinth of the temple speaks about the supreme dedication.

Etymology

When it comes to understand its meaning and derivation one must look to understand the importance of Sanskrit language because both the words Kona and Arka have been derived from the text of Sanskrit which means corner sun.

European while making their way here described the pagoda as Black Pagoda and in history this landmark can be considered to be the most influential.

History

When we talk about its history than we must understand it was king Narasimhadeva I of Eastern Ganga Dynasty who ordered to structure the walls of the temple during 1250. Built in gigantic style with chariot coming in to play the part of attraction the history of it is little shrouded in mystery and commands contradiction.

If we talk about the phrase which is mentioned in Bhavishya Purana and Samba Purana than it says there might have been a sun temple during the call of 9^th century. According to folklore the temple which was built by Narasimhadeva I could be a monument to celebrate his victory over Tughral Tughan Khan.

There are series of tale like that of Dharmapadas and samba tale that connotes different story in terms of standing of temple so its history is quiet within the call of mystery. However most of the time we have seen concluding with the fact of king Narasimhadeva I because his story and existence is most acceptable and possible one.

Architecture

Following a traditional style of Kalinga the temple has been composed in a way to reflect the chariot of Sun god. Twelve pairs of carved stone wheels and ornamented chariot which are pulled by the seven pairs of horses speaks the volume of amazing architectural work.

Built with Khondalite rocks the entrance and plans have been carved in such a way that first ray of sun that sneaks from the east lands on the centre of the temple. Its pyramid form that stretches like a tower is complimented by the Audience Hall and some parts of the Dancing as well as the Dining hall.

Collapse

There has been several postulates and definition in terms of its collision some say that its marsh landform was responsible for its destruction while other set of believers opines it by saying that the structure was not completed.  If we talk about its major reason and date of collision than both the question seems to give no perfect account of information so in general all we can do to trace its history is we can make assumption but can’t be sure about its narration.