Study on Art and Architectural Pattern of the Sun Temple of Konark in Eastern India

The Sun Temple of Konârak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Odisha, India, stands as a monumental example of Kalinga-style architecture, designed to resemble the chariot of the Sun God. Its unique eastward slope ensures that the first light of dawn strikes its main entrance, flanked by massive lions crushing an elephant and a man beneath them. The temple's exterior is adorned with intricate carvings depicting erotica, mythical creatures, warriors, and animals, while its interior features notable sculptures like the 'Mithuna.' Despite a partial collapse in 1837 due to structural and soil issues, remnants of the Vimana (main sanctum), Jagamohana (porch), and Nata Mandir (Dancing Hall) provide insights into its original grandeur. The study highlights the temple's significance as part of Odisha's 'golden triangle,' alongside other historic sites like Jagannath Puri and Bhubaneswar Lingaraj Temple. Additionally, the nearby Navagraha Temple houses a chlorite stone slab with carvings of the nine planets, originally displayed above the main entrance.

Mohapatra, R. (2023). STUDY ON ART AND ARCHITECTURAL PATTERN OF THE SUN TEMPLE OF KONARK IN EASTERN INDIA. ShodhKosh: Journal of Visual and Performing Arts, 4(1). https://doi.org/10.29121/shodhkosh.v4.i1.2023.2211