In the heart of Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district, amidst the whispers of ancient tales and the echoes of bygone eras, lies the Martand Sun Temple, a revered relic of the 8th century. While time may have weathered its physical form, the spirit of this ancient marvel persists, waiting to be resurrected for devotees and visitors alike.
In a momentous stride towards preserving this architectural treasure, a high-level gathering of government dignitaries is slated to convene on Monday. Their agenda? To deliberate upon the safeguarding and restoration of the Martand Sun Temple. There is also a discussion about the proposal to install a statue of Emperor Lalitaditya Muktapida within the temple precincts. This visionary monarch, whose legacy intertwines with the temple's storied past, is poised to be immortalized amidst the sacred surroundings.
Quoting the official notification issued by the Jammu and Kashmir government, Hindustan Times sheds light on the gravity of the matter. Principal Secretary to the Government, Department of Culture, shall preside over the pivotal meeting, underscoring the paramount importance accorded to the temple's preservation.
Recent endeavors to revive the temple's sanctity include the installation of a sacred 'Kalash' from Ayodhya at the nearby Ram Temple. This symbolic gesture, witnessed by devotees hailing from distant corners of the country, underscored the temple's enduring significance in the hearts of the faithful.
About Martand Sun Temple
The Martand Temple, a venerable testament to ancient craftsmanship, stands as a sentinel of spiritual heritage. Erected centuries ago under the patronage of King Lalitaditya Muktapida, it serves as a beacon of cultural continuity. The temple's journey, fraught with upheavals and tribulations, finds mention in the annals of history, with the saga of the Karkota dynasty.