Four sandstone replicas of the iconic Konark wheel have been installed at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan, according to an official statement released. This initiative aims to highlight and promote India’s rich cultural heritage, providing visitors with a deeper appreciation of the country’s historical artistry and craftsmanship.
Context
Cultural Importance
Statement by the President’s Office
General Information
Historical Context
Cultural Significance
Architectural Features
Wheels
Arrangement
Symbolism
Features and Carvings
Architectural Uniformity
Wheel Carvings
Designs
Summary/Static | Details |
Why in the news? | Four sandstone replicas of the iconic Konark wheel have been installed at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan |
Objective | To showcase and promote India’s rich cultural heritage to visitors. |
Significance | – The Konark wheel represents a key aspect of India’s artistic and historical legacy. – Part of efforts to integrate cultural elements at Rashtrapati Bhavan. |
Context | – The Konark Sun Temple, UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in Odisha. – The temple is designed as a colossal chariot for the Sun god. |
Cultural Importance | – The Konark wheel symbolizes India’s cultural heritage and artistic achievements. – Educates visitors on the historical significance of the temple. |
Statement by President’s Office | The replicas aim to enhance the cultural experience at Rashtrapati Bhavan, offering deeper insights into India’s traditional artistry. |
About Konark Sun Temple | – Deity: Sun God Surya. – Location: Konark, Odisha. – Constructed: Around 1250 CE during King Narasimhadeva I’s reign. |
Cultural Significance | – UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984. – Major pilgrimage site during Chandrabhaga Mela. |
Architectural Features | – Designed as a gigantic chariot drawn by seven horses. – 24 wheels at the base, each with intricate decorations. |
Konark Wheel Symbolism | – Seven horses represent days of the week. – 12 pairs of wheels represent months of the year. – 24 wheels symbolize the 24 hours of a day. – Wheels are also viewed as the ‘Wheel of Life’ and related to the Dharmachakra of Buddhism. |
Features and Carvings | – Carvings include foliage patterns, birds, animals, and medallions featuring women in luxurious poses. |
Wheel Function | – Spokes can be used as a sundial to estimate time based on the shadow cast. |
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