Surya Temple In Nalanda

The Surya Temple in Nalanda is a Hindu temple dedicated to the worship of Lord Surya, the Hindu god of the sun. It is located in the Nalanda district of the Indian state of Bihar. The temple is believed to have been built during the Gupta period, between the 5th and 6th centuries CE. It is considered to be one of the earliest examples of Hindu temple architecture in India. The temple has a unique architectural style, which combines both Hindu and Buddhist architectural elements. The temple is built on a high platform and is surrounded by a large courtyard. The main shrine of the temple is a small square room with a pyramidal roof. The walls of the shrine are decorated with intricate carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses. The entrance to the shrine is flanked by two large pillars, which are also intricately carved.

The temple is also home to several other smaller shrines, which are dedicated to various Hindu deities. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and attracts a large number of devotees every year. In addition to its religious significance, the Surya Temple in Nalanda is also an important historical site. It is located near the ruins of the ancient Nalanda University, which was one of the oldest and most prestigious centers of learning in the world. The temple is a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of ancient India.

Story Related To Mahabharat

There is a popular story related to the Mahabharata associated with the Surya Temple in Nalanda. According to the legend, the temple was built by Lord Surya himself as a tribute to Lord Vishnu. The story goes that during the battle of Kurukshetra in the Mahabharata, Arjuna, one of the Pandava brothers, was in great distress and was unable to fight. He sought the help of Lord Krishna, who advised him to offer prayers to Lord Surya for strength and courage. Arjuna then went to the banks of the river Narmada and performed a penance to Lord Surya for several days. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Surya appeared before him and granted him the divine weapon, the Pashupatastra, which he could use to defeat his enemies.

In gratitude, Arjuna asked Lord Surya where he could build a temple in his honor, and Lord Surya directed him to Nalanda. Arjuna then built the Surya Temple in Nalanda as a tribute to Lord Surya and Lord Vishnu. This story is often recounted by the priests and devotees of the Surya Temple and is considered to be a testament to the deep connections between the Mahabharata, Hindu mythology, and the temple's rich cultural heritage.

When was the temple built?

The temple is believed to have been built during the Gupta period, between the 5th and 6th centuries CE.

What is the architectural style of the temple?

The temple has a unique architectural style that combines both Hindu and Buddhist architectural elements.

What is the significance of the temple?

The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and is also an important historical site. It is located near the ruins of the ancient Nalanda University, which was one of the oldest and most prestigious centers of learning in the world.

What are some of the features of the temple?

The temple is built on a high platform and has a main shrine with a pyramidal roof. The walls of the shrine are decorated with intricate carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses, and the entrance is flanked by two large pillars.