Question

In the sun temple of Konark / Modhera is given the form of chariot being pulled by seven horses ? ​

Answer 1

The horse would be the answer

Answer 2

The seven horses depict seven days of the week.

Explanation:

• The Sun Temple of Konark is known for its striking Kalinga architecture that contains a portrayal of a 100 feet high chariot with wheels carved out of a single stone being pulled by horses.  

• The monument represents the grand chariot of the Sun god. It is built out of Khondalite rocks, the fundamental temple had 230 feet high shrine which no longer exists, 128 feet high audience hall, dance hall, dining hall which survive still.  

• There are 24 complexly designed wheels, 12 feet in diameter which are observed drawn by horses.  

• There are 7 horses that represent the week, the wheels signify the 12 months whereas the day-cycle is signified by the eight spokes in the wheels.

• This whole portrayal expresses how the time is tamed by the sun – being the exact illustration of the Surya in the Hindu tradition traveling from the east in his chariot led by his charioteer, Aruna.