Konark Wheel Takes Center Stage At G20 Summit Venue — Here’s All You Need To Know About It

The iconic Konark Wheel from Odisha’s historic Sun Temple stole the limelight at the G20 Summit venue on Saturday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi selected a backdrop featuring the 13th-century masterpiece for his welcome greetings with world leaders at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi. During the G20 event, PM Modi took the opportunity to explain the significance of the Konark Wheel to prominent figures, including American President Joe Biden.

The Konark Wheel: Here’s All You Need To Know

The Sun Temple, constructed under the reign of King Narasimhadeva-I from the Ganga dynasty, stands as a symbol of Odisha’s rich heritage. Situated on the shores of the Bay of Bengal in Konark, this architectural marvel was crafted over 12 years by approximately 1,200 artisans and craftsmen, who employed chlorite and sandstone to create a breathtaking blend of artistry and engineering, according to the World History Encyclopedia. 

Because the ruler worshipped the sun, the temple was revered as a chariot for the Sun God. Its design mimics a chariot mounted on 24 wheels, each measuring about 10 feet in diameter and drawn by seven powerful horses. The temple’s base is adorned with intricate carvings of animals, foliage, dancing women, and other structures, showcasing its architectural grandeur. 

In ancient times, the Konark Wheel also functioned as a sundial, accurately measuring time to the minute, including both day and night, according to Britannica. Furthermore, the Konark Wheel reflects the opulence of the Kalinga architectural style and the prosperity of ancient Odisha. Although the main temple housing the presiding deity and the Natya Mandap have deteriorated over time and now remain as remnants, the prominent structure visible today is referred to as the Jagamohana, the assembly hall or audience hall.

During the period from 1900 to 1903, the British authorities sealed and filled four entrances to the Jagamohana with sand to ensure the monument’s structural stability.

The Sun Temple in Konark is Odisha’s sole World Heritage site, having been designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage site in 1984. The custodian of the temple, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), has begun preparations to remove the sand from the Jagamohana and undertake necessary preservation efforts.

The government of Naveen Patnaik has unveiled an ambitious redevelopment plan for the Konark Sun Temple, a site that draws tourists from around the world in large numbers.