Budhni Sun Temple - Uttar Pradesh

Address

Budhni Sun Temple – Uttar Pradesh

Budhni Village, Mahroni Taluk,

Lalitpur District,

Uttar Pradesh 284406

Moolavar

Lord Surya

Introduction

The Sun Temple in Budhni Village, located in Mahroni Taluk, Lalitpur District of Uttar Pradesh, India, is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God).

Historical Background:

The Sun Temple was built by the Chandelas in the 12th century CE. The Chandela dynasty was known for its patronage of art and architecture in the region, which includes several remarkable temples.

Location:

The temple is situated in Budhni Village, which is approximately 18 kilometers from Mahroni in the Lalitpur District of Uttar Pradesh.

Architectural Features:

The original structure of the Sun Temple included a sanctum (garbhagriha), a maha mandapa (large hall), and an entrance porch.
The temple once had a shikara (tower) over the sanctum with seven tiers, but only two tiers of the shikara remain today due to its dilapidated state.
The entrance of the sanctum is intricately carved with miniature figures and includes depictions of the ten incarnations (avatars) of Lord Vishnu.

Idol of Lord Surya:

The sanctum of the temple houses an eight-foot-tall idol of Lord Surya. However, it’s noted that both of Lord Surya’s hands are broken.

Sculptures and Fragments:

The temple premises contain sculptures of various gods and goddesses from the Hindu pantheon.
Additionally, there are architectural fragments in the temple complex that provide insights into the original design and artwork.

Step Well:

Near the Sun Temple, you can find a step well. Step wells were not only sources of water but also places of architectural and aesthetic significance in ancient India.

The Sun Temple is an important historical and architectural site, reflecting the rich heritage of temple construction in India during the Chandelas’ rule. Despite its current state of disrepair, the intricate carvings and the idol of Lord Surya remain as testaments to the artistic and religious practices of that time. The temple’s location in the Lalitpur District makes it part of the larger historical and cultural landscape of this region in Uttar Pradesh.