Context:
The backdrop for the welcome handshake between the Prime Minister of India and G20 leaders at the summit venue, Bharat Mandapam, featured a replica of the Konark Wheel from the Sun Temple in Puri, Odisha.
About Konark Temple wheel:
- The wheel with 24 spokes is also adapted into India’s national flag.
- Embodies India’s ancient wisdom, advanced civilisation, and architectural excellence.
- Symbols of –
- The rotating motion of the Konark Wheel symbolises time (Kalachakra) as well as progress and continuous change.
- Powerful symbol of the wheel of democracy that reflects the resilience of democratic ideals and commitment to progress in society.
About Sun Temple:
- Location – East Odisha (Puri)
- Built in 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I (AD 1238-1264).
- Designed in the shape of a colossal chariot.
- Significance –
- It is directly and materially linked to Brahmanism and tantric belief systems.
- It marks the highest point of achievement of Kalinga architecture depicting the grace, the joy and the rhythm of life all its wondrous variety.
- Declared as UNESCO world heritage site in 1984.
- Comprises of –
- 2 rows of 12 wheels on each side
- 7 horses symbolize the seven days of the week.
- Black Pagoda – Sailors once called this Sun Temple of Konark, the Black Pagoda because it was supposed to draw ships into the shore and cause shipwrecks.
Click here to read about Kalinga architecture
Source: Indian Express
Previous Year Question
The Prime Minister recently inaugurated the new Circuit House near Somnath Temple at Veraval. Which of the following statements are correct regarding Somnath Temple?
1. Somnath Temple is one of the Jyotirlinga shrines.
2. A description of Somnath Temple was given by Al-Biruni.
3. Pran Pratishtha of Somnath Temple (installation of the present day temple) was done by President S. Radhakrishnan.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2022 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a)
