The Konark Temple complex contains remains of numerous other temples and structures. The most distinguished among them is the temple of Chhaya Devi. In local Odia language ‘Chhaya’ means ‘Shadow’. Chhayadevi temple is located towards the southwest corner of the Konark temple’s compound. This small temple is dedicated to the wife of the Sun God who's name was Chhaya Devi. The temple is facing towards east and consists of a sanctum, compound wall and a porch standing over a raised platform. From the board placed at the entrance of this temple, it is noticed that it belongs to late 11th century A.D. Chhayadevi temple is also known as Mayadevi temple. A row of khondalite stones surrounded the whole temple complex. Chhayadevi temple was discovered during the excavation carried out between 1900 and 1910.
As per our guide, this was probably the first Sun temple built in 11th and early 12th century A.D, but later after the construction of the main Sun temple, this became the separate temple for Chhayadevi. Our guide also explained that the shadow of the sun temple falls on this temple only once a day. Chhayadevi temple is comparatively a much smaller construction, however the expanded crocodile and yaali figures, made up of chlorite stone, on both side of the temple deserve special mention. These are not just beautifully carved stone figures, but water outlets of the temple.
The superstructure of the sanctum and the porch of Chhayadevi temple have been destroyed over time, but the remaining part of the temple walls are richly carved with beautiful stone sculptures. There are beautiful stone figures of females, elephants, horses, naga mithuna and various Deities on the outside temple walls and platform. Some of the Deities include damaged figure of Sun God, Vayu, Agni and Vishnu. The interior walls of the porch is also notable for its intricate stone carving. The sanctum is devoid of any deity, but you will find a small figure in the center of the sanctum. There are beautiful stone carvings on both side of the staircase.
Stone carvings on Chhayadevi temple walls
Outer walls of Chhayadevi Temple
Stone figures on the outer wall of Chhayadevi Temple
Inner walls of Chhayadevi Temple
Stone figures on inner walls of Chhayadevi Temple
Stone carvings on both side of the staircase
