In village Diveagar of Konkan region of Maharashtra is this beautiful complex of Sundernarayan and Rupnarayan temples. The complex is located on the road leading to the sea beach in the village. The temple (Sundernarayan) was constructed by the king of the Shilahar dynasty in the 13th century. Rupnarayan temple has been recently constructed. Both the temples are constructed out of local red laterite stone, popularly known as ‘chira’ by the local people.
Deep stepwell near this temple is a landmark structure. Unlike many other temples of Konkan, this temple has a beautiful shikhar. Rupnarayan Mandir has a Sabha Mandap and the plan of the temple is very simple, it is rectangular, with the Garbha Griha included within. There are no walls to the Sabha Mandap of Rupnarayan Mandir. The roof is supported by the columns. The temple is an example of the achievement of aesthetics through simplicity and perfect proportions. The Sundernarayan temple is anancient one.
The deity of the temples is Bhagwan Vishnu. The idols have been carved out of black marble in both the temples. These temples are on a plinth also made out of Chira stone. The plinth is hardly one feet in height. Deep stambha is also within the complex. Construction and design of the new temple is very sensitively accomplished and merges with the original composition.
Temple is in the vicinity of the sea and surrounded by lush green coconut and betel nut trees. The entire ambience is just beautiful and serene. The complex does not have any protective compound wall. The old Sundarnarayan temple needs more care, attention and affection from the local people and the administration. More and more people can then take the experience of the serenity of our temples and have a calm and peaceful experience.
