Religious Geography of India
The Sun Temple of Multan and Sun Worship
The Sun Temple of Multan was a major site of worship mentioned by travelers like Hiuen Tsang and Alberuni. Additionally, Sambapur was a prominent pilgrimage center specifically dedicated to sun worship.
Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference
Archived:
Updated:
Exam Year
2020
Evidence Source
Link ↗Consider the following statements and select the correct answer using the codes given below: 1. The Sun temple of Multan is mentioned by Hiuen Tsang, Abuzaiyid, AI-Masudi and Alberuni. 2. The pilgrimage to Sambapur was associated with Sun worship. Codes:
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2020]
Detailed Solution & Historical Context
Concept
Solar worship was a significant religious current in ancient India, evidenced by magnificent temples that attracted international attention from travelers and geographers.
Authentic Source Evidence
Travelers like Hiuen Tsang described the magnificent Sun Temple of Multan. The Samba Purana links the pilgrimage to Sambapur with Sun worship, narrating how Samba (son of Krishna) was cured of leprosy by Lord Surya.
Analytical Breakdown
Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic
"Which son of Krishna is associated with the Sun worship tradition at Sambapur?"
Samba, the son of Krishna, is credited with establishing the Sun worship tradition at Sambapur after being cured of leprosy.
Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip
"The high visibility of the Multan Sun Temple in international accounts highlights India's role as a major pilgrimage destination in the pre-medieval world."
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