Arasavalli Sun Temple
Rekha deula (Kalinga Architecture)·7th century·India
The Arasavalli Sun Temple, dedicated to Lord Surya, is located in Andhra Pradesh, India. Believed to have been built in the 7th century CE by King Devendra Varma of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty, its present structure is largely the result of 18th-century renovations. It is renowned for its unique architectural style and the phenomenon where the sun’s rays illuminate the deity’s feet twice a year.
Key Facts
- ›Dedicated to Lord Surya, the solar deity.
- ›Located in Arasavalli Village, 1 km east of Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, India.
- ›Believed to have been built in the 7th century CE by King Devendra Varma of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
- ›Features the Rekha deula style of Kalinga Architecture, similar to the Puri Jagannath temple.
- ›The early morning sun falls on the deity's feet twice a year (March 9-11 and October 1-3), even with closed gates.
- ›Considered one of the oldest and major Sun temples remaining in India.
Surya
Architectural Achievement, One of the Oldest Sun Temples In India, Major Temple For Lord Surya Worship, Site of Unique Solar Illumination Phenomenon
Eastern Ganga Dynasty
Rathasaptami
King Devendra Varma, Sage Kasyapa, Dusi Family
About Arasavalli Sun Temple
The Arasavalli Sun Temple, officially known as Sri Surya Narayana Swamy Devalayam, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Surya, the solar deity. Located in Arasavalli Village, 1 km east of Srikakulam in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, this temple holds historical and religious importance. It is recognized as one of the oldest Sun temples in India and is one of the few major temples that continue to worship Lord Surya, alongside the Konark Sun Temple and the now-destroyed Martand Sun Temple.
History and Construction
According to the Padmapuranam, the idol of Surya was installed at Arasavalli by Sage Kasyapa for the welfare of humankind. Historical inscriptions on the temple walls attribute its creation to King Devendra Varma, a notable ruler of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty of Kalinga, who is believed to have built it in the 7th century CE. The temple has undergone significant renovations over the centuries; the present structure is largely a result of changes made during the 18th and 19th centuries. It fell into disrepair at various points and was notably reconstructed in 1778 CE by Elamanchili Pullaji Panthulu. The Dusi family also contributed to its upkeep and changes over time.
Architectural Design
The Arasavalli Sun Temple is celebrated for its architectural brilliance, showcasing the Rekha deula style of Kalinga Architecture, a style also exemplified by the Puri Jagannath temple in Odisha. The temple was constructed with the expertise of Vishwakarma Brahmins, also known as Maharanas of Odisha. A unique and awe-inspiring feature of the temple's design is how the early morning sun's rays fall directly on the feet of the deity twice a year. This phenomenon occurs during Uttarayanam (March 9–11) and Dakshinayam (October 1–3), even when the temple's five entrance gates are closed, highlighting the precision of ancient astronomical and architectural knowledge.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Arasavalli Sun Temple built?
Historical inscriptions suggest the temple was built in the 7th century CE by King Devendra Varma. However, the present structure is largely a result of renovations carried out in the 18th and 19th centuries, with a significant reconstruction in 1778 CE.
Who built the Arasavalli Sun Temple?
According to inscriptions on the temple walls, the creator of the temple was King Devendra Varma, a ruler of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty of Kalinga. The temple's origin is also linked to Sage Kasyapa, who is said to have installed the idol of Surya.
What is special about the Arasavalli Sun Temple's design?
The temple is recognized as an architectural achievement, employing the skills of Vishwakarma Brahmins or Maharanas of Odisha. A remarkable design feature is that the early morning sun falls directly on the feet of the deity twice a year, even when the temple's five entrance gates are closed.
What is the significance of the Arasavalli Sun Temple?
It is considered one of the oldest Sun temples in India and is one of the few major remaining temples dedicated to Lord Surya. The temple is also a landmark for various festivals celebrated in the town, including Rathasaptami.
What architectural style is the Arasavalli Sun Temple built in?
The temple is built in the Rekha deula style of Kalinga Architecture, which is similar to the architectural style of the Puri Jagannath temple in Odisha.
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