Odisha’s temples for all before our clash against the Kalinga Warriors

There’s 28 states in India. The one we would have visited today is not one that’s overrun by visitors. It could be. Certainly should be.

It is overrun however; by its wildlife, it’s beaches, the temples and their architecture, the arts and dance, the food and all it’s historical wonders. And each in good measure.

Today, we are at the iconic Sun Temple in Konark — a UNESCO world heritage site. Built in the 13th century by 1200 artisans, the temple is designed as a massive chariot with 12 wheels and 7 horses. It is oriented towards the east so that the first rays of the sunrise strike the main entrance. The wheels of the temple are sundials, which can be used to calculate time accurately to a minute.

This architectural marvel follows the Kalinga style of architecture, one that is renowned and synonymous with many of the 700 plus temples in the state.

The Jagannath Temple in Puri is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in the state. And interestingly, the temple does not create a shadow during the daytime. Also, you cannot hear the sound of the waves of the ocean when you are inside the temple.

The Rajarani Temple also known as the love temple has no deities and has intricate and erotic carvings of couples. People of all religions and ethnicity can visit this temple situated in the capital city of Bhubaneswar.

Here’s to the grandeur extraordinaire of Odisha’s temples as we head to a football stadium today; a temple of it’s own.