Question

The famous Sun temple of Konark was built by whom?
A.Narasimhadeva I
B.Konkanivarman
C.Narasimhadeva II
D.Narasimhadeva III

Answer 1

Hint:Konark temple was also called “Black Pagoda” due to its colour. It was used as a navigational landmark by sailors during ancient times in Odisha. It is dedicated to sun god Surya. Eastern Ganga dynasty is credited for the construction of Konark temple. It was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.

Complete answer:
The word Konark derives from two Sanskrit words kona and arka. It was built for sun god and follows the Kalinga and Orissa architectural style which is considered as a subset of Nagara style architecture. It is located on the Eastern shore of India.
 Konark Sun temple was built in Orissa by Eastern Ganga Dynasty ruler in the 13th century, Narasimhadeva I. The chief architect behind this temple is Bisu Maharana. This temple is in the form of a gigantic chariot. The European sailors called this as Black pagoda. It was built by Khondalite rocks. It was constructed near Chandrabhaga river and regarded as a heritage site by UNESCO. It is set on high base with extensive carving.
In Konark temple chariot with twenty four wheels drawn towards the dawn by seven horses gives the impression of carrying sun god across heaven. The seven horses are said to symbolize one week which consist of seven days. The main attraction of this temple is 24 wheels which are carved at the base of the temple. The design is geometric.

Hence, the correct answer is option (A).

Note: The Konark temple comes under the category of Kalinga School of Indian temples. It is derived to Surya who is regarded as Sun God. It was built by the Eastern Ganga dynasty ruler, Narasimhadeva I. It was built in 1250 AD. It shows traditional Odisha style of architecture.