Why in the News?

Four replicas of the Konark wheels, made of sandstone, have been installed at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan.

About Konark Wheels

	Details
Design	The temple is designed in the shape of a huge chariot drawn by 7 horses and features 24 wheels.
Dimensions of Wheels	Each wheel has a diameter of 9 feet 9 inches with 8 wider spokes and 8 thinner spokes.
Symbolism of Wheels	The wheels represent various time-related aspects: • 7 horses symbolize the days of the week. • 12 pairs of wheels signify 12 months. • 24 wheels represent 24 hours in a day. • 8 spokes symbolize prahars (three-hour periods).
Architectural Features	• The wheels are intricately carved, showcasing designs of foliage, animals, and figures of women in various poses. • Rims of the wheels have decorative carvings.
Sun Dial Functionality	Two of the wheels function as a sundial, accurately indicating time from sunrise to sunset using the shadow cast by the axel.
Modern Representation	Featured in Indian currency, specifically in the old Rs. 20 and new Rs. 10 notes, representing Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. Rs. 10 note released by the RBI on January 5, 2018, features the Konark Wheel on its reverse side.

The Konark Wheel, serving as an ancient sundial, symbolizes the advanced understanding of timekeeping and astronomy in 13th-century India.
Its intricate carvings reflect exceptional craftsmanship and cultural significance, embodying the cycle of life and the worship of Surya, the Sun God.
Its depiction on Indian currency highlights its enduring legacy and significance in promoting national identity and tourism in Odisha.

konark

Approximately 64 km from Bhubaneswar.
Built in the 13th century (around 1250 CE) during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
Dedicated to Surya, the Sun God.
Exemplifies Kalinga architecture, known for its intricate stone carvings and elaborate sculptures.
Constructed from Khondalite stone, which is durable and intricately carved.
Designed as a chariot with 7 horses and 24 wheels.
Structure originally included a sanctum (deul) and a jagamohan (assembly hall) that have largely collapsed but were once adorned with exquisite carvings.

[2017] Which of the following is/are famous for Sun temples?

1. Arasavalli

2. Amarakantak

3. Omkareshwar

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3