The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has prohibited tourist entry into the ‘Nata Mandap’ (dancing hall) of the Konark Sun Temple in Odisha’s Puri district. The decision was taken due to structural vulnerabilities and conservation concerns, as parts of the Nata Mandap’s floor and pillars show signs of stress and weathering.
Architectural Features
Design Concept: The entire temple resembles a gigantic solar chariot, symbolizing the Sun God’s journey across the sky.
Structure:
oOriginally stood 227 feet high, making it among the tallest temples ever constructed in India.
oThe chariot features 24 intricately carved wheels, each about 12 feet in diameter, drawn by six stone horses.
Orientation: The temple faces east, designed so that the first rays of the morning sun illuminate the main sanctum.
Material Used:
oKhondalite stone – main structural material.
oLaterite stone – for the boundary walls and flooring.
oChlorite stone – for door jambs and decorative elements.
oIron clamps and dowels – used to join massive stone blocks, some exhibiting magnetic properties (believed to attract ships).
Artistic Carvings:
oDepictions from Hindmythology, celestial beings, animals, daily life, and dancers adorn the temple walls.
oThe Nata Mandap served as a hall for devadasis performing ritual dances.
Scientific Significance:
oThe wheels function as sundials, capable of measuring time to within minutes.
Cultural & Religious Significance
Chandrabhaga Festival (February): Annual celebration honouring the Sun God, involving rituals, music, and dance near the Chandrabhaga River.
The temple remains a symbol of artistic excellence, solar worship, and maritime heritage of medieval Odisha.
Conservation Concerns
Erosion, weathering, and past restorations have compromised parts of the structure, especially the Nata Mandap and Jagamohana (main hall).
ASI employs laser scanning, ground-penetrating radar (GPR), and 3D mapping for non-invasive conservation.
The Black Pagoda’s iron structure, while innovative, also contributed to moisture-induced corrosion over centuries.
IAS-2026 - OPTIONAL / GEOGRAPHY / PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION / SOCIOLOGY / ANTHROPOLOGY / ORIENTATION ON 03 & 04-10-2025 
