Who built the Konark Sun Temple?
R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 1999
A. Narasimhadeva Varman
B. Rajendra Chola
C. Ashoka
D. Krishnadev Rai
Answer: Narasimhadeva Varman
Option a is the correct answer.
Narasimhadeva Varman was the king of the Eastern Ganga dynasty who ruled over the region of Kalinga (present-day Odisha and parts of West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh) from 1238 to 1264 CE. He is credited with building the Konark Sun Temple, a magnificent monument dedicated to the Hindu Sun God Surya. The temple is designed as a giant chariot with 24 wheels and 7 horses, symbolizing the movement of the sun across the sky. The temple is adorned with exquisite sculptures and carvings depicting various aspects of Hindu mythology, culture and society. The temple is also a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture, which reflects the artistic and engineering skills of the ancient Odishan craftsmen. The Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction in India.