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Modhera Sun Temple: From 1,000 Years of Heritage to India’s First 24×7 Solar Village

Why in News?

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned the nearly 1,000-year history of Gujarat’s Modhera Sun Temple and its modern transformation in the 138th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’.
  • He highlighted the temple’s historical heritage, its reconstruction after invasions, and Modhera’s achievement as India’s first 24×7 solar village.
  • Modhera has emerged as an example of combining historical heritage with renewable energy.

History of Modhera Sun Temple

  • The Modhera Sun Temple is located in Mehsana district of Gujarat. It was built in the 11th century during the reign of Chalukya ruler Bhima I (Bhima Deva I).
  • The temple was constructed around 1025 CE and was damaged during the invasion of Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026 CE.
  • In later periods, the temple also faced attacks during the reign of Alauddin Khalji. Despite these attacks, its historical and architectural heritage has survived.
  • Regular worship is not conducted at the Modhera Sun Temple today.
  • The temple is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

India’s First 24×7 Solar Village

  • Modhera has been developed as India’s first ‘Solar Village’. The initiative was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2022.
  • The solar energy-based system was developed to meet the village’s electricity requirements through renewable energy.
  • The initiative is an example of promoting clean energy, energy self-reliance and sustainable development in rural areas.

Convergence of Heritage and Tourism

  • Modhera has witnessed the development of tourism facilities alongside its historical heritage.
  • The Modhera Dance Festival is held every year in January, featuring performances based on India’s classical and cultural dance traditions.
  • Modhera demonstrates the combination of India’s ancient cultural heritage and modern green energy technology.

UPSC Prelims MCQ: Modhera Sun Temple

Question 1. Consider the following statements regarding the Modhera Sun Temple:

  1. It is located in Mehsana district of Gujarat.
  2. It was built during the reign of Chalukya ruler Bhima I.
  3. It is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

How many of the above statements are correct?

(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None

FAQs: Modhera Sun Temple and Solar Village

Q1. Where is the Modhera Sun Temple located?

Answer: The Modhera Sun Temple is located in Mehsana district of Gujarat.

Q2. Who built the Modhera Sun Temple?

Answer: The Modhera Sun Temple was built in the 11th century during the reign of Chalukya ruler Bhima I.

Q3. What special achievement is Modhera known for?

Answer: Modhera is known for being developed as India’s first 24×7 solar village (Solar Village).

Q4. When was the Modhera Solar Village initiative inaugurated?

Answer: The Modhera Solar Village initiative was inaugurated in 2022 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Q5. Who protects the Modhera Sun Temple?

Answer: The Modhera Sun Temple is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

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