Lost Wonder Of Kashmir: 1200-Year-Old Martand Sun Temple Set For Glorious Restoration

Nestled amidst the picturesque vistas of Kashmir's Anantnag region, the Martand Sun Temple, an architectural marvel from the 8th century, is poised to undergo restoration under the auspices of the Jammu and Kashmir government.

Yesterday (1 April) The J&K government convened a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat in Jammu to finalise measures for safeguarding the temple. 

Tragically, the temple endured periods of turmoil and devastation, including its reported destruction on the orders of Sultan Sikandar Shah Miri. It weathered further attacks, notably during the tumultuous years of militancy in Kashmir from 1988 to 1990.

Despite the challenges it faced, the Martand Sun Temple remained a sacred destination for thousands of pilgrims who flock to its hallowed grounds each year, reports Mint.

Interestingly, In a ceremony preceding the Ayodhya temple consecration rites, conducted in January 2024, a revered 'Kalash' from Ayodhya found its solemn place within the sacred precincts of the Ram Temple, nestled within the Martand Sun Temple compound. The installation of this auspicious 'Kalash' was witnessed by fervent devotees.

Martand Sun Temple

The Martand Sun Temple, also known as Pandou Laidan, stands as a testament to India's rich cultural heritage and spiritual legacy. It was constructed under the patronage of Lalitaditya Muktapida, the third ruler of the Karkota Dynasty.

The structure is constructed of limestone, and the entire complex has been built on top of a plateau.

This is visible in the use of stone pillars, columns, trefoil doorways and the use of rectangles, triangles, and pediments, the latter being a common Baroque design element.

Its grand design features a courtyard housing the central shrine, surrounded by 84 smaller shrines. Spanning 220 feet in length and 142 feet in width, the temple also integrates a pre-existing smaller temple within its layout.

In recognition of its historical and architectural significance, the temple is listed among the centrally protected monuments under the name Kartanda (Sun Temple).

As the J&K government embarks on the journey to revive this architectural gem, anticipation mounts, heralding a new chapter in the temple's storied history. The impending restoration holds promise not only for preserving tangible heritage but also for revitalising a cherished symbol of spiritual and cultural legacy for generations to come.