President of Singapore Tharman Shanmugaratnam on Saturday visited heritage crafts village Raghurajpur and the famous 13th century Sun Temple at Konark in Puri.
Konark Sun Temple and Related Developments
About Konark Sun Temple
- Location: Situated in Konark, Puri district, Odisha, India.
- Historical Significance: Built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
- Architecture: Designed in the shape of a gigantic chariot with twelve intricately carved wheels pulled by seven horses.
- Cultural Importance: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exquisite Odishan temple art and architecture.
- Deities and Themes: Dedicated to Surya, the Sun God, the temple is a symbol of artistic excellence and devotion.
- The temple, built from Khondalite rocks, is also known as ‘BLACK PAGODA’ due to its dark colour.
- Unique Features:
- The “Main Vimana” of the temple is no longer present.
- The existing structures include the Jagamohana (audience hall) and parts of the Natya Mandir (dance pavilion).
Raghurajpur Heritage Crafts Village
- Location: Situated near Puri, Odisha.
- Importance: Known for its diverse art forms, including:
- Pattachitra Art: Intricate scroll painting traditions with mythological and religious themes.
- Tala Patra Chitra: Palm leaf engravings depicting historical and spiritual stories.
- Stone Sculpture: A traditional craft featuring carvings of deities and motifs.
- Gotipua Dance: A semi-classical dance performed by young boys dressed as girls.
- Recognized for promoting the rich heritage of Odisha’s folk and classical art forms.
Cultural and Diplomatic Impact of President’s Odisha Visit
- Cultural Diplomacy:
- The visit strengthened international appreciation for Indian heritage and arts.
- Promotion of Digital India:
- First Lady’s use of UPI payment highlighted India’s technological advancement and adoption of digital systems globally.
