The iconic Konark Sun Temple wheel at the recently concluded G20 Summit in Delhi as its replica served as the backdrop for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's welcome handshake with delegates.
Konark Temple
Built in the 13th century, the Sun Temple at Konark in Odisha is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known worldwide for its architectural grandeur, the temple was built by Eastern Ganga ruler Narasimha I. Eastern Ganga dynasty was a kingdom in India, ruling over an area corresponding to present day Odisha, the coastal plain between the Ganga and the Godavari.
The majestic Sun Temple at Konark is a symbol of India. Formerly called the Black Pagoda, this magnificent temple has been designed as a gigantic chariot of the Sun God.
Eastern Gangas were great temple builders. The temples built by them survive to be awe-inspiring spectacles for the people who throng to them.
Chief among them are Jagannatha temple of Puri and the Sun Temple (also known as Black Pagoda) at Konark. The dynasty is called Eastern Gangas to differentiate them from Western Gangas, a separate dynasty, ruling in Mysore.
