PM Modi highlights Modhera's 1,000-year journey from temple legacy to India's first 24x7 solar village
PM Modi recalls Modhera's 1,000-year history and its transformation into India's first 24x7 solar village during Mann Ki Baat.
In the latest episode of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected on the profound historical journey of Gujarat's Modhera. He traced the path of the ancient Sun Temple from its era of destruction and resilience to its modern-day rebirth as India's very first 24x7 solar village, known as 'Surya Gram'.
A Legacy of Resilience and Reconstruction
The Prime Minister delved into the deep historical roots of the Modhera Sun Temple, noting its connection to the struggles faced by India's sacred sites. He specifically recalled the period around 1026 AD, a time of significant turmoil when both the Somnath Temple and the Modhera Sun Temple faced attacks during the invasions of Mahmud of Ghazni.
Highlighting the strength of Indian heritage, PM Modi pointed out that the Modhera Sun Temple had been constructed just a year prior to the attack, in 1025 AD, under the reign of the Chaulukya ruler King Bhimdev I. He emphasized the incredible spirit of the era, stating:
“King Bhimdev The First not only confronted the forces of Ghazni but also had the Modhera Sun Temple rebuilt within a short time. It is because of this very resilience that the Somnath Temple, too, was rebuilt every time despite facing repeated destruction."
The Prime Minister noted that even after facing subsequent attacks during the era of Alauddin Khilji, the site's reverence for the Sun and its historical significance remained unshaken through the centuries.
From Ancient Heritage to India's First Solar Village
Transitioning from the historical to the contemporary, the Prime Minister celebrated how the spirit of Modhera has evolved into a symbol of modern sustainability. Since the solar village initiative was inaugurated by him in 2022, Modhera has successfully transformed into a model for renewable energy at the grassroots level.
Key highlights of the Modhera transformation include:
- 24x7 Solar Power: The village now operates entirely on solar energy, serving as a national example of sustainable living.
- Tourism and Culture: New amenities and attractions have been developed to welcome visitors to this historic site.
- Modhera Dance Festival: Held every January following Makar Sankranti, the festival showcases India's magnificent classical and cultural dance forms.
PM Modi encouraged citizens to experience this blend of history and innovation firsthand, urging them to visit Modhera to witness the glorious Indian heritage that continues to thrive.
Commemorating Civilisational Continuity
The Prime Minister's reflections coincide with the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, a national commemoration marking 1,000 years since the first recorded attack on the Somnath Temple in January 1026. This observance serves as a tribute to the faith and civilisational continuity of the nation, rather than just a remembrance of past destruction.
While the Modhera Sun Temple complex is now a protected monument maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and is no longer used for regular worship, its transformation into a 'Surya Gram' ensures that its legacy remains a living, breathing part of India's future.