India Mint Stamp

Lokith Philately

Permanent Pictorial cancellation of Odisha

Permanent Pictorial Cancellation inaugural day covers

Date of issue: 05.10.1979

Pin code: 752111

Status: Active

PO Name: Konark

Description: Konark Temple is located 35 km from Jagannath Puri and about 65 km from Bhubaneswar in Orissa. A masterpiece of Oriya architecture, built by King Narasimhadeva during the reign of the Ganga dynasty in the 13th century, it is one of the largest and main Sun temples in India. The name 'Konark' is derived from Sanskrit words meaning corner or angle (kona) and sun (arka), indicating the significance of the representation of the chariot of Lord Surya. The temple is built from Khondalite rocks and no mortar or cement is used in its construction. It is built in the form of a chariot, with 12 pairs of wheels that are beautifully decorated. The chariot is pulled by seven horses. Featuring intricate and detailed sculptures depicting scenes from Ramayana, Mahabharata and other mythologies, it was renovated in the 20th century maintaining its beauty and grandeur. The temple is also known for its celestial architecture. Its sanctum sanctorum is built in such a way that the first rays of the rising sun fall directly on the idol of the Sun God. The two huge decorative elephants in the temple complex guard the entrance of the temple. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. Konark Wheel is depicted on the reverse side in an Indian currency note of 10 rupees as the Indian cultural heritage.