Konark Temple

Konark Temple History, Timings, Pooja and Darshan details

Konark Temple History

The temple was built during the reign of Ganga King Narasimhadeva I in 13th Century AD. Temple architecture reflects the Kalinga construction style.

As per the Legend, Sambudu Manasaputra of Lord Krishna got relieved from Leprosy on taking bath at Chandrabhaga. He also recovered the Sun God Idol from the Chandrabhaga Sarovar. Who installed the Idol of Konark and built the temple. Temple was built during 1257 – 1260 AD. Temple complex was in the form of a chariot.

It is stated in Purushottama Mahatya that Lord Vishnu after killing the Demon Gayasura, left his Conch in Puri, Disc in Bhubaneswar, Mace in Jajpur and Lotus in Konark.

The main temple was built 229 ft above the ground. The Portuguese Navy staff using their authorities removed the Vimana Sikara as they believed that magnetic force from the Vimana Sikara was disrupting the Ships movement. As soon as the Vimana Sikara was removed the Gopuras, pillars balanced on the collapsed to the ground.

An interesting story associated with this temple, The temple construction went for 18 years during the reign of Narasimhadeva I. The angered king ordered the main sculptor to finish the construction in a short span. 12 years old boy Dharmapala, son of the main sculptor Bissu Rana took the charge and completed the work. As soon the work is done, he committed suicide by jumping into the Bay of Bengal.