Sun Temple at Aurangabad in Bihar is unique as it faces
west, the setting sun not the usual rising sun. Surya Mandir is located at Deo
or Dev around 22 km from Aurangabad. The presiding deity here is known as
Trikal Surya – Forms of Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu. Brahma depicts the rising
sun, Shiva the mid-day sun and Vishnu represents the setting sun.
Outside the main sanctum sanctorum, in the front hall
section, there are three broken murtis. They are not worshipped but it is
believed these were the original murtis worshipped in the temple. Invaders
destroyed it. The broken murtis are of Surya (the Sun God) with seven horses, Uma-
Maheshwara and Vishnu. Shivling and Ganesh murti can also be found in the shrine.
It is believed that the present shrine was constructed
between 8th and 12th century AD.
The structure of the temple is simple and follows the Nagar
style of architecture prevalent in North India.
Legend has it that originally the temple faced east. During
the invasion of Kala Pahar, he tried to destroy it. But the priests stopped him
saying that misfortune would befall if the temple was destroyed. Kala Pahar
then told the priests that the temple would turn west if it was so miraculous. The
priests told that even that would happen. Next day during sunrise, the temple miraculous
faced west.
The most important festival observed here is the Chhath Puja
in November/December and also in March/April. Ardra Nakahstra and Sundays
attract maximum crowd.
Surya Kund and Rudra kund located nearby are considered
highly meritorious. Taking holy dip in the ponds help in curing leprosy, skin
diseases and other acute ailments.