NATA MANDIRA
(Konark Sun Temple)
Kalinga architecture The structure lying in front of the Jagamohana (Audience Hall) is the Nata Mandapa (Dancing Hall) of Konark temple. It is also known as Nata Mandira. The nata Mandira is located at a short distance from Jagamohana on the east. It is built on a high platform which is 3.6 meters in height. The Nata Mandapa has sixteen pillars on the platform, and the central four pillars are taller than the surrounding pillars, so it suggests that it had a sloping/pyramidal roof. The plan of the Nata Mandira is square. The platform of the Nata Mandapa is approached by four stairways in the centre of all four sides. The eastern stairway is the main entrance. The two colossal gaja-simha structures (lion upon elephant) are placed in front of the eastern stairway.
Konark Sun Temple
Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century Hindu temple located in the coastal town of Konark in the Indian state of Odisha. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Surya (the Sun) and is designed in the form of a chariot with 24 wheels, each about 10 feet in diameter. The temple is known for its exquisite stone carvings and intricate architecture.
The temple was built by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty in the 13th century. It was originally located on the shore of the Bay of Bengal but over time, due to natural causes and human intervention, the sea has receded and the temple is now about 2 kilometers from the coast.