SUN TEMPLE, GWALIOR

Indian architecture encompasses a multitude of expressions over space and time, constantly absorbing new ideas. The result is an evolving range of architectural production that nonetheless retains a certain amount of continuity across history. 

And one such architectural wonder, is located at a stone’s throw distance from the residency at Morar in Gwalior city i.e. The Sun Temple. The Temple fairly naturally is consecrated to the holy Sun God. The Temple not only derives its classification from the famous Sun Temple at Konarka in Orissa, the architecture too is inspired by the same. 

The Surya Mandir or the Sun Temple was constructed in 1988 by G.D.Birla, the famous industrialist of India. The city of Gwalior dates back to the 8^th century and has been witness to some of the greatest Rajput clans like the Prathiharas, the Kachwahs and the Tomars. Stories go around that Maharaja Suraj Sen of the Kachwaha dynesty was down with a deadly disease and was cured by the hermit saint Gwalipa. It was out of gratitude to him that Suraj Sen. built the city of Gwalior.

The Sun Temple or Surya Mandir is one of the spectacular shrines and architectural edifices that dot the countryside of the ancient city of Gwalior, while it is not very old; the Sun Temple happens to be one of the most respected shrines of Gwalior.  

The exterior of the Sun Temple is constructed in Red sand stones. Unlike the exterior of the Temple, the captivating interior has been constructed using White marble and houses a beautiful carved sculpture of Lord Surya. One can also find beautiful carved figurines of Hindu Gods on the exterior of the Temple. 

The massive chariot shaped Temple has twelve pairs of wheels symbolizing the 12 months, each pair representing the dark and bright halves of the lunar period attached to the seven horses(representing seven rays of the sun) to pull structure through the air. The wheels each about the 10feet in diameter are carved in relief along the longer sides of the platform upon which the Temple stands. They are remarkable for their extensive detail and elaborate design, each wheel is rendered with intricately carved spokes, hubs and pins. 

The Temple is located in a serene ambience and a well –maintained garden within the Temple premises is very attractive as well as it also serves as a perfect place to relax. 

Although a newly constructed Temple, this stunning shrine witnesses a large crowd of tourists and pilgrims all year round, making it one of the most sought after religious destinations of Gwalior. One can also find beautiful carve figures of Hindu Gods on the exterior of the Temple. 

The Sacrosanct Sun Temple attracts myriads of tourists who flock to the city to catch a glimpse of the same. The Temple is located at a distance of approximately 5kms from the local bus stand and the railway station and happens to be one of the much coveted tourists attractions on a tour to Gwalior. 

Due to the peaceful atmosphere of this Sun Temple, thousands of devotees gather here to render their prayers. It makes one astounded - that a shrine of comparatively modern origin holds such a highest regard and become one among the most sought after pilgrimage centers in the city.