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When we think about measuring time, most of us picture a wristwatch or a digital clock on our phones. But centuries ago, long before technology shrank into our pockets, our ancestors relied on the Sundial—a remarkable invention that worked solely with sunlight.
In Odisha, sundials are more than just scientific instruments; they are silent witnesses to history, artistry, and human ingenuity. Some stand in temple courtyards, others in school compounds or forgotten corners of old towns—each with a story to tell.What Exactly is a Sundial?
A Sundial is a simple yet precise timekeeping device. It uses a pointer—called a “Style” or “Gnomon”—which casts a shadow on a marked dial. As the Sun moves, the position of this shadow changes, thereby indicating the time. However, unlike modern clocks, sundials show local solar time, which can differ slightly from our Indian Standard Time depending on the location’s longitude.
Furthermore, there are mainly three types of sundials:
- Equatorial – Dial parallel to Earth’s equator
- Horizontal – Dial parallel to the ground
- Vertical – Dial standing upright
A Glimpse into the History
The journey of the sundial began around 4000 B.C. in Egypt—just a stick casting a shadow. Eventually, the Greeks refined it for astronomical studies, calling it a gnomon. Later on, in India, Sawai Jai Singh (1686–1744), the astronomer-king of Jaipur, built massive masonry sundials at his observatories across five cities.
Meanwhile, in Odisha, one of the most spectacular examples is the Sun Temple at Konark. Built in the 13th century, this architectural wonder is shaped like a chariot, with 24 exquisitely carved wheels—each wheel acting as a sundial. Moreover, the eight spokes divide the day into “praharas” (three-hour intervals), with the hub’s shadow marking the time.Famous Sundials of Odisha
1. Mukteswar Temple Sundial, Bhubaneswar
2. Ravenshaw College Sundial, Cuttack
3. Konark Sundial (Inspection Bungalow)
4. Khandaparagarh Sundial
5. Barambagarh Sundial
6. Madhupurgarh Sundial
Personal Experience – Learning to Read Time at Konark’s Sundial Wheel
I still remember standing before one of Konark’s massive chariot wheels, as my guide explained how the shadow falls differently every hour. At first, it seemed like ancient magic; however, as I traced the shadow’s edge along the stone markings, I soon realized it was pure science blended with artistry.
Meanwhile, the morning sun was warm, the carvings glistened, and the shadow lined up perfectly with the markings—telling me it was 9 a.m. In that moment, I wasn’t just a tourist; instead, I became a timekeeper from the 13th century. Ultimately, the feeling of connecting with an age-old tradition of measuring time using nothing but sunlight was truly unforgettable.Why Sundials Matter Today
How We Can Preserve This Legacy
- Repair and restore damaged styles and dials
- Clear sunlight paths by removing obstructive structures
- Put up explanatory boards for visitors and students
- Promote heritage tourism through guided tours and workshops
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