Sun Temple at Modhera is one of the few shrines that are dedicated to the Sun God. Situated on the banks of Pushpavati River in Modhera, Sun Temple is easily accessible from Ahmedabad, the largest city of Gujarat. The nearest station to Modhera is located at Ahmedabad, which lies at a distance of 102 kms. Regular bus services are also available from Ahmedabad to Modhera. The nearest Railway station is sited at Mehsana, with a mere run of 25 kms.
About Sun Temple, Modhera in Gujarat :
The village of Modhera is situated about 106 kms. north west of Ahmedabad. Modhera was a site of great importance at one time. Today, Modhera is a vitually deserted hamlet. Far more off the beaten track and much less well known than the Konark Sun temple, Modhera retains a great deal of its atmosphere and charm. Modhera is known for the 11th century Sun temple. In January, Modhera is also the venue for the three days dance festival.
Architecture of Sun Temple, Modhera in Gujarat :
The brilliant architecture of the temple is one of its own class. The temple encompasses three different yet axially-aligned and integrated constituents. As per the Konark Temple, this shrine is designed in a manner, so that the first rays of the Sun cast on the image of the Lord Surya. The Temple was plundered by Mahmud Ghazni; still the architectural grandeur is not vanished. No matter what is left, yet the remnants provide a great enchantment to behold.
Erected on a high platform, the Temple appears majestic with its grand structure. However, the spires are out of the scene, but the ‘Toranas’ (Archways) that lead to the main halls overshadow the absence of spires or shikhars. The exterior walls are engraved with intricate carvings, boasting about the mastery of art in those times. Every single inch of the structure is covered with the sculptural patterns of Gods, Goddesses, birds, beasts and flowers. Actually, the Sun Temple is divided into three parts namely Surya Kund, Sabha Mandap and Guda Mandap.
Modhera Sun Temple History :
Modhera Sun temple was built in 1026 A.D by King Bhimdev (1) of Solanki dynasty. Various scriptures gives different evidences of this fact. This temple depicts the essence of ancient times. The sculptures and architecture present in this temple are still magnificent after all these years. In the present times, prayers are not offered in this temple.
Ala-Uddin-Khilji invaded this temple and broke many idols and sculptures. He looted this temple for money which destroyed this temple to a great extent. This temple is now under the supervision of Archaeological Survey of India.
Modhera Sun Temple – Construction :
The Solanki dynasty was believed to be Suryvanshi and hence, King Bhimdev (1) built this temple which is devoted to Lord Sun. Kings used to worship Lord Sun in this temple. This temple is an evidence of Indian art of sculpture and architecture. It is one of the most famous Sun temples in India. Various important things can be related to this temple.
Irani style of architecture can be seen in the construction of this temple. This temple has been built in two parts. The first part if the central part of the temple and the second one includes the pavilion. The central part of the temple is huge. 52 pillars are present in the pavilion which comprise of drawings and paintings of various Devi-Devas, Ramayana and Mahabharata. The temple is built in a way that the first rays of the Sun fall directly at the centre of the temple every morning. Two huge Kunda are present in this temple which are known as Suryakund and Ramkund.
Modhera Sun Temple Importance
Modhera Sun temple is famous all around the world for its ancient history. This temple has also been talked about in various mythological texts according to which Saint Vashishtha asked Lord Rama to go to a place named Dharmaranya. He asked Lord Rama to this as he killed a Brahma and wanted him to repent. It is believed that Lord Rama was the one who set up Modhera village in Dharmaranya. This temple is situated in the same place. It is believed that Solanki kings were blessed
Tourist Attractions in Modhera :
Surya Kund
Surya Kund is a deep stepped tank in the front of the temple. The tank was named after the Lord Surya (Sun God). In the earlier times, this 100 sq meter rectangular tank was used to store pure water. The devotees used to take a halt here for ceremonial ablutions before moving towards the temple. Not less than 108 shrines mark the steps of this tank including the shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva, Sheetala Mata and many others. In front of this tank, a huge ‘torana’ (archway) leads to the Sabha Mandap.
Sabha Mandap
Literally, Sabha Mandap refers to an assembly hall where religious gatherings and conferences are conducted. This hall is open from all the four sides and has 52 delicately carved pillars. The intricate carvings depict scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata (Indian Epics) and scenes from the life of Lord Krishna. In order to get into the Sanctum Sanctorum, one has to cross the passage with pillars and arches.
Guda Mandap
Guda Mandap is the sanctum sanctorum that is supported by a lotus-base plinth. Once, this hall used to house the idol of the Sun God. The designing of the hall was done in a way, so that the idol gets the first glimpse of the Sun at equinoxes. However, the idol was plundered by Mahmud Ghazni yet the walls represent the Sun God in his 12 different facets of each month. The carved walls also depict the aspects of human life like the vicious circle of birth and death. The façade of this hall was renovated in the recent years, despite the fact that the roof over the Guda Mandap had already been shattered.
Sanctum Sanctorum
Sanctum Sanctorum is the main chamber of the temple. It rests on a lotus shaped platform and contains the bejeweled idol of Lord Surya. The chamber was plundered by Mahmud Gazni.
Festival :
Modhera dance festival is the major festival that is observed by the Sun Temple. This dance festival is organized to keep the Indian traditions and culture alive. It is held in the third week of January every year. The classical dance forms in the premises of this temple revive the imperial ambiance during the period. Gujarat Tourism organizes this event to promote tourism at this place.
How to reach Modhera :
Modhera is direct connected to various cities in Gujarat. The nearest railway station is located at Mehsana which is about 40 kms.
Location: On the banks of Pushpavati river in Modhera, Gujarat
Built by: King Bhimdev of the Solanki dynasty
Built in: 1026 AD
Dedicated to: Lord Surya / Sun God
Attraction: Marvelous architectural work
Significance: One of the few Sun Temples across the country
