Modhera Sun Temple

• Location: Modhera village, Mehsana district, Gujarat.
• River: Situated on the bank of the Pushpavati River.
• Deity: Dedicated to Surya (Sun God).
• Builder/Period: Built after 1026–27 CE, during the reign of King Bhima I of the Chaulukya dynasty.
• Present status: No worship is offered today.
• Protection: Protected monument maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
• UNESCO: Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

Architecture – Maru-Gurjara Style

• Also known as Chaulukya style.
• Temple complex has three major components:
  • Gudhamandapa – shrine hall.
  • Sabhamandapa – assembly hall.
  • Kunda – stepped reservoir.
• The components are arranged along an east–west axis, reflecting the temple’s association with the movement of the Sun.
• Sabhamandapa:
  • Stands on 52 pillars.
  • Pillars are associated with the 52 weeks of the year.
  • Intricate carvings depict episodes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and life of Krishna.
• Kunda (reservoir):
  • Has steps leading to the bottom.
  • Contains numerous small shrines.
• Solar alignment:
  • Architectural planning allows sunlight to enter the main sanctum around the equinoxes.
  • The temple’s design demonstrates the integration of astronomy and architecture.
• Sculptures:
  • Exterior walls are richly decorated with intricate carvings and sculptural motifs.

Prelims Question

Q. With reference to the Modhera Sun Temple, consider the following statements:

1. It is located on the bank of the Pushpavati River.
2. It was built during the reign of King Bhima I of the Chaulukya dynasty.
3. Its architecture is associated with the Maru-Gurjara style.
4. It is currently an active place of worship.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

Explanation: Modhera Sun Temple is located in Gujarat on the Pushpavati River, was built during the reign of Chaulukya King Bhima I, and represents the Maru-Gurjara/Chaulukya architectural style. No worship is offered at the temple today.