Umri Sun Temple, Madhya Pradesh

Address

Umri Sun Temple, Umri, Tikamgarh District Madhya Pradesh 472010

Diety

Surya

Introduction

The Sun Temple in Umri Village, dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God), is an ancient temple with historical and cultural significance.The Sun Temple is believed to have been constructed during the 9th century CE by the Pratihara rulers. The temple is dedicated to Lord Surya, the Sun God, who holds a prominent place in Hinduism. Sun temples are relatively rare in India, and this temple is an important representation of solar worship. The Sun Temple is located in Umri Village, which is situated in the Tikamgarh District of Madhya Pradesh, India.

Puranic Significance

The Sun Temple in Umri Village, dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God), features a distinctive architectural and religious design.

Architectural Details:

The temple is designed to face the east, which is a common orientation for Hindu temples as it symbolizes the direction of the rising sun and the source of light and energy.
Its architectural plan is Pancharatha, which means it has a layout with five spires or projections, a common feature in North Indian temple architecture.

Sanctum Sanctorum:

The sanctum sanctorum (the innermost chamber) consists of three parts: the Sanctum, Antrala, and Mukha Mandapa. This design is typical in many Hindu temples.
The lintel above the entrance of the sanctum is adorned with various important deities and symbols. Notably, it features an image of Lord Surya (the Sun God), who is flanked by the Sapta Matrikas (seven divine mothers), Vinayaka (Ganesha), Veerabhadra, and the Ashta Grahas (eight celestial bodies or planets).
The base of the doorjamb has depictions of the river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna, which are commonly found in Hindu temple architecture.

Shikara and Niches:

The temple’s Shikara (tower) follows the Nagara style of architecture, which is prevalent in North India. The Nagara style is characterized by its curvilinear spires and ornate decorations.
The temple features Ashta Dikpalas, the guardians of the eight cardinal directions, which are often depicted in seated postures around the temple’s outer walls. However, Ishana, representing the northeast direction, is depicted in a standing posture.

Surya Image:

Although the temple originally housed an image of Lord Surya, only the pedestal of the idol has survived. The temple’s design and the surviving elements of Lord Surya’s depiction make it a unique representation of solar worship.

Other Niche Images:

The niches around the sanctum walls are mostly empty, except for the western niche, which houses an image of Lord Surya. This depiction shows Lord Surya riding a chariot drawn by seven horses, with Aruna serving as his charioteer.

Religious Significance:

The Sun Temple is a place of religious worship and pilgrimage, where devotees pay homage to Lord Surya. Solar worship holds a significant place in Hinduism, and the temple continues to be a site of religious significance and cultural heritage.