Odisha CM seeks probe into replacement of artistic stone carvings at Konark Sun Temple

Bhubaneswar: Taking serious note of the media report regarding the replacement of artistic stone carvings at Konark Sun Temple with plain stones, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has written a letter to Union Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma seeking a probe into the matter.

“It has been mentioned in the paper (a leading Odia daily) that the original stone carvings in Konark Sun Temple have been removed and in their place, plain stones have been fixed. A masterpiece of creative genius in both conception and realization, the temple represents a chariot of the Sun God and is one of the World Heritage sites declared by UNESCO. It is embellished with sophisticated and refined iconographical depictions of contemporary life and activities. It is the main attraction of domestic & foreign tourists in Odisha,” said Patnaik in his letter to Sharma.

“Konark Sun Temple represents the climax of Odisha temple architecture. It symbolizes Odia pride & reflects the ethical and emotional expression of the Odia people. The temple was built in 13^th century AD by the king Lagula Narasingha Deva with the assistance of 1200 sculptors. Now only the Jaganohana (front temple) remains, which is also gradually decay,” he added.

The Odisha CM further said, “The newspaper mentioned that 40 percent of the original artistic stone carvings of the Konark Sun Temple have been replaced by the ASI with plain stones. The report is a matter of worry and concern for all of us. I have a feeling that the temple deserves more attention from the ASI than what it has got. The ASI needs to focus more on proper conservation of Konark Sun Temple and its art and aesthetic values.”

“In the above context, I would request you to cause an inquiry into the matter and also direct ASI to take appropriate steps immediately for preservation and conservation of this magnificent World Heritage monument,” Patnaik concluded.

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