India, an agrarian nation, depends on natural elements like fire, earth, air, sky, and water for survival. The Sun, a celestial body that illuminates the world, sustains ecosystems and fuels Earth daily, holds great significance. In Vedic times, the Sun attained deity status in our mythology. This reverence dates back to the Neolithic period and extends beyond India, with sun worship observed in ancient Egyptian, Inca, Nabatean, and Shinto religions. India houses numerous captivating Sun temples, serving as living testaments to the worship of the Sun God.
When it comes to visiting the Sun temples in India, Konark Sun Temple in Odisha, Martand Temple in Anantnag, Kashmir, and Modhera Sun Temple of Mehsana district, Gujarat make it to the forefront of every itinerary. Katarmal in Almora, Suryanar Kovil (also called Suryanar Temple) in Tamil Nadu and Osia in Rajasthan are also Surya mandirs (Sun temples). All these temples are not exemplary of engineering precisions but also intricate and elaborate stone carvings. In Gujarat, Modhera Sun Temple stands as an architectural marvel from the early 11th century. Modhera also finds mention in the ancient scriptures like Skanda Purana and Brahma Purana. Further, some folklores mention that Lord Rama performed a penance yagna here after killing Brahmin (Ravana).
Manjulika Pramod lists some incredible facts and features about Gujarat’s Modhera Sun Temple and the period in which it was constructed.
The Sabha Mandapa has four entrances and one can enter through any side. Here, you must look for the torans, the intricate Gujarati artwork at the entrance. At the centre is the walnut ceiling which is ruined but still stands gorgeous. This open on all sides’ structure was mainly meant for social and religious gatherings. The main shrine has only one entrance and inside, it is dark. It was made in a way so that the rays of the sun would reach the Sancto Sanctum, and light up the space.
The ASI maintains the temple well so that travellers can visit, appreciate, and see a part of the magnificence that once existed here. Visitors travelling to Gujarat should plan a visit to this temple and if possible, must stay back to enjoy the solar-powered 3-D Projection mapping show and heritage lighting (light and sound show) at the temple post-sunset. A cultural festival is also organized once a year. There is a museum complex too that can be explored to learn more about it.
How to Reach the Temple? Modhera is only 100 kilometers from the World Heritage City of Ahmedabad, 85 kilometers from Gandhinagar, and only 35 kilometers from Patan. If you start early from Ahmedabad, a day trip to Patan and Modhera is easily doable.
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