Modhera Dance Festival

Sun Temple at Modhera in Mehsana District are the ruins of the 11th Century temple, situated on the banks of Pushpavati river. Constructed in 1026-27 A.D. during the reign of King Bhimdev I of Patan, the temple is dedicated to Surya or the Sun God. It is a magnificent specimen of superb artistry of Gujarat's architects of the bygone days. Modhera's sun temple is positioned in such a manner that at the equinoxes the rising sun strikes the images in the sanctuary.The outer walls of the temple are covered with sculptures in which the figures of Surya, the sun god are prominent. The Sun Temple also incorporates an amusement park, a museum, a cafeteria, picture gallery and library.

The canvas on the walls and pillars depict the incidents from the Ramayan and the Mahabharat, and forms of gods and goddesses and the way of life of the people of that time. An interesting iconograph is one with three heads, three arms and three legs. Later, the temple was ruined by Mahmud of Gazni. Adjoining the Sun Temple is the huge 'Sun Kund' (Rama Kund) surrounded by step-terraces with numerous smaller temples numbering about 108.

Modhera dance festival organized by the Gujarat Government ‘Cultural Department’, is the major festival that is observed at the Sun Temple. This dance festival is organized by Gujarat Tourism to promote tourism and 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.

History
The Sun Temple of Modhera in the Mehsana district of Gujarat is a spectacular religious monument of the Golden Age of the Solanki Empire. Since time immemorial, rulers and kings with their citizens used to enjoy dance performances here. The tradition continues even today. Also referred as Uttarardh Mahotsavor, Modhera Utsav is one of the best festivals in Gujarat. In fact, people from other parts of India make a festival tour to Modhera during the festival time. The beauty of the state’s ancient historical tradition of dance is displayed beautifully in the Sun Temple premise, attracting dancers & artists from around the world as well. Modhera Dance Festival Tour is one of the best festival tours in Gujarat, India.

Celebrations of the Modhera Dance Festival
Modhera Dance Festival has become an internationally acclaimed cultural show in today’s time. Various Indian classical dance forms are performed most beautifully on this festival. With the Sun Temple at the backdrop, an aesthetic ambience is formed for the rendition of various Indian classical dances. An annual festival in Gujarat, you see a great display of glory and splendour of the Solanki empire era and today it is considered one of the most popular celebrations of music, art, dance, and culture of the state. The festival not only showcases the varied dance forms of India but also provides a platform of bringing the cultural ethos of other regions together through dance. Dance troupes, local artists, performers from India and from many international countries participate, bringing a plethora of varied dance forms and styles, narrating the stories of the past. The Sun Temple is all in its glory and grandeur, and it seems it has come alive with music, dance and festivities around during the festival. This is a 3-day festival organized by the State Government’s tourism department.

If you are a traveller and a connoisseur of art, culture, architecture, music and dance, then you should not miss the Modhera festival. Experience the cultural heritage of Indian dance and music in a setting which takes you back in the lap of golden history. A festival tour to Gujarat during the Modhera Dance Festival has its unique charm. It is a breathtakingly beautiful sight to see the performance of dancers in their colourful dresses, showcasing the ethnicity of the country. Various dance forms along with the essence of their cultural heritage cannot be missed at all. And also, the spectacular sight of the Sun Temple with attractive lighting is something which is worth cherishing. Lively folk music echoes all around keeping the tourists spell bound.