After the hustle and bustle of the Jagannath temple,
the splendid ruins at Konark, of the monumental Sun temple, speak of a
world caught in a time warp. Anchored to the sands at Konark Beach, the
temple stands hoist upon its enormous 24 intricately carved wheels. The
temple, conceived as a chariot hauling the Sun god (Surya), across the
heavens by the mighty of 7 splendid carved horses caught in the mute
symphony of stone, lies in partial ruin. The Natamandira, a separate
enclosure, is still intact.
The process of discovering the magnificent structure continues apace as
archaeologists whittle away at the debris surrounding this colossal
edifice. Today, the temple is protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage
Site.
This gorgeously sculpted and intricately carved temple was once the
Black Pagoda to maritime visitors to Orissa in ancient times. Its erotic
sculptures rival the beauty and detailing of those of Khajuraho. Its
extravagant charms still lure scores of visitors. For even in its ruin,
its dignity and splendour remain unmarred by the march of time..
The Open Air Auditorium, set amidst the casuarina grove, against the
back drop of spectacular Sun temple, is the venue of annual Konark Dance
Festival in recent times.
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