Why was Konark temple filled with sand by the British?

The British had filled the Garbhagruha (sanctum sanctorum) of the Sun Temple—famously known as the Black Pagoda—in Konark with sand between 1903 and 1909 to prevent the ageing structure from collapsing.

Also Read: ASI begins sand removal process from Konark Sun Temple’s sanctum after 122 Years

Now, after 122 years, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has begun the delicate process of removing that historic sand fill, renewing global curiosity about what lies inside the long-sealed chamber.

Core drilling through the sanctum wall has already touched the British-era sand layer. ASI engineers confirm that the sanctum walls are an impressive eight metres thick, a reassuring indicator that the ongoing extraction poses no structural threat.

As the operation progresses, the long-awaited possibility of allowing tourists to enter the sanctum and witness its hidden carvings for the first time in more than a century is becoming increasingly real.

UNESCO has hinted at significant archaeological potential, suggesting that clearing the chamber might reveal insights into the ancient temple’s engineering.

To begin a safe extraction, a nine-metre-long, 16-centimetre-wide core has been drilled on the sanctum’s right side, allowing experts to assess internal stability before removing larger volumes of sand.

The British had originally resorted to sand-packing after discovering dangerously loose ceiling stones. To prevent a collapse, they built a 15-foot-high inner masonry wall around the sanctum and filled the enclosed space with sand and stone chips.

Their drastic intervention preserved the monument but sealed its heart for generations.

As the filled sand slowly comes out, experts are now examining the condition of the suspended ceiling stones and planning permanent support systems to ensure the temple’s long-term safety.

“If the sand extraction drive becomes successful, then people of the world will be able to witness the gigantic Jagamohan of Konark Sun Temple, containing the excellence of stone carvings and intricate architecture of erstwhile Kalinga, which dates back to the 13th Century,” UNESCO Member, Dipayan Pattanayak, said to OTV when contacted.

“The ageing monument can now be protected by making use of steel structures as well as advanced technology. Though too late, the ASI has started preserving the monument, which is a healthy sign,” the UNESCO Member expressed.

“As the Konark Sun Temple is a world heritage site, removal of sand from the monument is our dream project. We are working on it with utmost caution and care, keeping in mind the sentiments of people. The DG (Director General) of ASI and Culture Department are monitoring the project,” Superintending Archaeologist (Puri Circle), D.B Garnayak, stated.

Reported By: Sanjaya Kumar Pati, Gautam Panda, Archana Satpathy