Ancient Martand Sun Temple in Jammu & Kashmir to be renovated after 600 years

Srinagar – Jammu-Kashmir’s ancient Martand Sun Temple will be renovated after 600 years. The Chief Secretary of the Cultural department has called for a high-level meeting at the city secretariat on 1st April 2024. In this meeting, the renovation of the ancient Martand Sun Temple at Anantnag will be discussed. Kashmir’s Martand Sun Temple is one of the iconic Hindu temples devoted to Deity Sun similar to Orissa’s Konark and Gujarat’s Modhera.

1. In this meeting, the installation of the statue of emperor Lalitaditya Muktapida in the premises of Martand Sun Temple will be discussed

2. Emperor Lalitaditya Muktipada built the Martand Sun Temple. He belonged to the Karkota dynasty. He ruled in the 7th century. As mentioned in the epic Rajatarangini by historian Kalhana, Lalitaditya’s reign marked a period of prosperity and cultural flourishing in the region.

3. Sultan Sikandar Shah Miri ordered the destruction of the temple. He was habituated to breaking idols of Hindu Deities.

4. Lieutenant Governor of Jammu-Kashmir Manoj Sinha offered puja at the Martand Sun Temple.