Sun Temple, Modhera – History

Sun Temple, Modhera – History

The Sun Temple was built during the reign of Bhima I of Chaulukya dynasty (1022–1064 CE). The Kingdom of Bhima I was invaded by Mahmud of Ghazni during 1026 CE.  The Kunda with its corner shrines was built earlier at the beginning of the 11^th century CE based on the stylistic ground. Bhima fled his capital Anahilapataka. He took shelter in Kanthkot, allowing Mahmud to enter the Chaulukya capital unopposed.

Mahmud's sudden invasion, coupled with the lack of any fortifications in Anahilapataka, may have forced Bhima to abandon his capital. Other residents of the city also appear to have evacuated it, as the Muslim historians do not mention any massacre or looting in the Chaulukya capital. Mahmud rested at Anahilapataka for a few days, replenished his supplies, and then left for Somnath.

A relatively small force of 20,000 soldiers unsuccessfully tried to check Mahmud's advance at Modhera. The Sun Temple might have been built to commemorate this defense. The temple was attacked and damaged by Mahmud Ghazni. There is an inscription dated to Vikram Samvat 1083 (1026 – 1027 CE) on a block in western wall of the sanctum. As the inscription is upside down, it evidences the destruction and reconstruction of the sanctum.

The inscription is rather considered as the date of destruction by Ghazni instead of the construction. Bhima I wrested back the control of his kingdom immediately after the departure of Mahmud Ghazni. The temple proper, the miniature and niche shrines in the tank were built shortly after 1026 CE. The dancing hall was added much later in the third quarter of the 12^th century along with the gateways, the porch of the temple proper & the doorframes of the temple and the sanctum during the reign of the Karna.

The temple is built approximately near Tropic of Cancer. The place was later known as Sita ni Chauri and Ramkund locally. No worship is offered here now. The temple is the Monument of National Importance and is maintained by the Archeological Survey of India. It was built after 1026-27 CE during the reign of Bhima I of the Chaulukya dynasty. No worship is offered now and is protected monument maintained by Archaeological Survey of India.