Martand Sun Temple
Source: National Herald
GS I: Art and Culture
Overview
- About Martand sun temple
Why in the News?
ASI Protocols,a Group Of Hindus Storm Into Martand Sun Temple, Hoist Saffron Flag & Perform Parikrama.
About Martand sun temple
- The Martand Sun Temple is also known as Pandou Laidan.
- It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Surya (the chief solar deity in Hinduism).
- The temple fostered cultural and architectural richness and now it stands as an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)-protected monument.
- It was built during the 8th century CE.
- It was built by King Lalitaditya Muktapida of the Karkota Dynasty 1200 years ago.
- Martand is another Sanskrit synonym for Surya. (Indian temple architecture ‘Devayatanam’)
- The temple is a fine example of Kashmiri architecture and is renowned for its grandeur and artistic excellence.
- It reflects a blend of Greek, Roman, Iranian, and Indian architectural styles.
- The main shrine, dedicated to the Sun God, was originally surrounded by 84 smaller shrines.
- It stands in the middle of a large courtyard with 86 fluted columns.
- The courtyard is connected to the main shrine, where Sun God’s idol was installed.
- Its temple includes mighty grey stone walls, a three-chambered structure with distinct carvings.
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