Diplomats Visit Konark Sun Temple
On a recent Saturday, ambassadors, high commissioners, and heads of mission from 14 countries, along with their spouses and other diplomats, visited the Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha. They were amazed by the temple’s beauty and preservation.
Impressions from the Visit
Vetsop Namgyel, the Bhutan Ambassador, expressed his admiration for the temple’s architectural design, emphasizing its importance as a world heritage site. He praised the intricate sculptures and carvings, highlighting Odisha’s rich cultural history.
Alice Cheng, Acting High Commissioner of Singapore, also praised the temple’s craftsmanship and preservation, noting its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Patrick John Rata, New Zealand’s High Commissioner to India, appreciated the Ministry of External Affairs’ efforts in organizing the visit, which allowed diplomats to learn more about India.
Odisha’s Cultural Showcase
Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs, noted the diplomats’ admiration for the temple’s scientific design and Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. The group also attended the Bali Jatra festival, which celebrates Odisha’s maritime history and connections with Southeast Asia.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the Bali Jatra festival, highlighting its significance in showcasing Odisha’s cultural and historical ties with the Indo-Pacific region.
Doubts Revealed
Diplomats -: Diplomats are people who represent their country’s government in another country. They work to maintain good relationships between countries.
Konark Sun Temple -: The Konark Sun Temple is a famous ancient temple in Odisha, India. It is known for its beautiful architecture and is dedicated to the Sun God.
Odisha -: Odisha is a state on the eastern coast of India. It is known for its rich culture, history, and beautiful temples.
Bhutan’s Ambassador -: An ambassador is a high-ranking official who represents their country in another country. Bhutan is a small country near India.
Singapore’s Acting High Commissioner -: An Acting High Commissioner is a temporary representative of a country in another country. Singapore is a small island country in Southeast Asia.
New Zealand’s High Commissioner -: A High Commissioner is like an ambassador but usually represents a country within the Commonwealth, a group of countries that were once part of the British Empire. New Zealand is a country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean.
Ministry of External Affairs -: The Ministry of External Affairs is a part of the Indian government that handles India’s foreign relations and international affairs.
Bali Jatra festival -: Bali Jatra is a festival celebrated in Odisha, India. It marks the ancient maritime trade between Odisha and Southeast Asian countries.
Maritime history -: Maritime history refers to the history of human activity at sea. It includes trade, exploration, and cultural exchanges across oceans.
Southeast Asia -: Southeast Asia is a region in Asia that includes countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. It is known for its diverse cultures and history.