The Koothuru Festival is associated with which ancient temple dedicated to the Sun God in Andhra Pradesh?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Solution: The correct answer is Arasavalli Surya Narayana Temple.
Explanation:
☛ The Koothuru Festival is celebrated at the ancient Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple situated in Arasavalli, near Srikakulam in Andhra Pradesh.
☛ This temple is dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) and is one of the distinct surviving sun temples in southern India.
☛ According to historical inscriptions, the temple was built in the 7th century CE by King Devendra Varma of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
☛ A unique architectural wonder of this temple is that twice a year, the early morning sunrays fall directly on the feet of the presiding deity inside the sanctum sanctorum.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Konark Sun Temple: Located in Odisha, it was constructed in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty and is designed in the shape of a colossal chariot.
☛ Modhera Sun Temple: Situated along the banks of the Pushpavati River in Gujarat, it was built in 1026–27 CE by King Bhima I of the Solanki (Chalukya) dynasty.
☛ Suryanar Kovil: Located in Tamil Nadu, this temple was constructed during the reign of Kulottunga Chola I in the 11th century CE and is dedicated to Surya along with other Navagrahas.
☛ Martand Sun Temple: Built by King Lalitaditya Muktapida of the Karkota dynasty in the 8th century CE, it is located in Anantnag, Jammu & Kashmir.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which major festival dedicated to the Sun God is celebrated with great pomp at the Arasavalli Temple? → Ratha Saptami
☛ The Konark Sun Temple was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in which year? → 1984
☛ The Modhera Sun Temple in Gujarat is built in which architectural style? → Maru-Gurjara style
☛ The Katarmal Sun Temple is situated in which state of India? → Uttarakhand (Almora)
☛ Which river flows near the famous Konark Sun Temple complex in Odisha? → Chandrabhaga River