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Description: Deo, also known as Dev, is a historically and culturally significant town located in the Aurangabad district of Bihar, India. It is best known for its Surya Mandir, a remarkable temple dedicated to the Sun God, which stands out due to its unique westward-facing orientation towards the setting sun—an uncommon feature among sun temples, most of which face east to greet the rising sun.

This architectural choice adds to the temple's spiritual and cultural importance, particularly during the traditional Hindu rituals of Surya Puja and Chhath Puja, both dedicated to the worship of the Sun God. The Dev Surya Mandir is an architectural marvel, showcasing a combination of Nagara, Dravidian, and Vesara styles, reflecting the diverse cultural influences in the region. The temple's distinctive form is crowned by a golden urn at its pinnacle, which enhances its grandeur and symbolic presence. Inscriptions found in the temple provide a historical backdrop, with references dating back to the Pala and Senua periods. 

A particularly notable inscription from 1437, attributed to King Bhairavendra, recounts the temple's history and its twelve associated shrines, indicating its importance to local Hindu rulers. The temple's history suggests that it endured through turbulent times, including being reclaimed after the invasion of Bengal by Mohammed bin Bakhtiyar Khilji. Some historians propose that the temple may have originally been linked to Buddhism before being transformed into a Sun temple under the patronage of King Bhairavendra. The Surya Mandir at Deo is a testament to the region's deep historical roots, architectural brilliance, and ongoing spiritual devotion, making it an essential destination for those interested in history, culture, and religious heritage.