Question

What is the prominent feature of Modhera Sun Temple of Gujarat?
A) Vimana does not cast a shadow at noon during any part of the year
B) Trickling waterfalls on Shiva Linga every time
C) The first rays of the sun fall directly on the idol
D) All of the above

Answer 1

Hint: The Sun Temple's main shrine was built during the reign of Bhima I of the Chalukyas dynasty. Previously, during 1024-25, Mahmud of Ghazni invaded Bhima's kingdom, and a force of around 20,000 soldiers failed to stop his advance at Modhera.

Complete answer:
The Sun Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the solar deity Surya in Modhera village of Gujarat's Mehsana district. It is located on the banks of the Pushpavati River. It was constructed between 1026 and 1027 CE, during the reign of Bhima I of the Chalukyas dynasty. There is no longer any worship here, and it is a protected monument maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Gudda Mandapa, the shrine hall; Sabhamandapa, the assembly hall; and Kunda, the reservoir comprise the temple complex. The halls' exteriors and pillars are intricately carved. Steps lead down to the reservoir's bottom, and there are numerous small shrines.

Option A: Vimana does not cast a shadow at noon during any part of the year: The Brihadeshwara Temple is one of the world's tallest temples and is built in such a way that the viman does not cast a shadow at noon any time of year. This is the incorrect answer because the question is regarding the Modhera sun temple.

Option B: Trickling waterfalls on Shiva Linga every time: Tapkeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a popular temple inside a natural cave that can be reached after descending 200 steps. Tapkeshwar derives its name from the continuous trickling of water from the Shivling's ceiling. Temples dedicated to Vaishnomata and other Goddesses can be found nearby. A rivulet near the temple is worth seeing. This is the incorrect answer because the question is regarding the Modhera sun temple.

Option C: The first rays of the sun fall directly on the idol: The Modhera Temple was built in such a way that the first sun rays would fall on a diamond placed on the Sun God's head at each equinox. And the entire temple would be bathed in a golden light. On other days, regardless of the position of the sun, two pillars in front of the garbhagriha would remain illuminated throughout the day. All of this is now left to the imagination. Thus this the correct answer.

Thus, the answer is Option ‘C’ i.e, The first rays of the sun fall directly on the idol.

Note: Modhera is mentioned in ancient scriptures such as the Skanda Purana and the Brahma Purana. Modhera and its environs are also referred to in ancient texts as Dharmaraja, or the Forest of Righteousness.