The Modhera Dance Festival is presented with live dance performances by professional artistes and emerging talents. This festival is the signature activity of the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat. It is held every year during the month of January and continues for three days. The Modhera festival intends to provide prominence to Indian classical dance as well as folk dance. It is an annual celebration of Gujarat that takes place in the Sun temple at Modhera in Mehsana district.
The Sun temple at Modhera, Gujarat is dedicated to Lord Surya, the sun god. Sun Temple is the preferred venue for the beautiful Modhera Dance Festival as it acts as a splendid backdrop during the festival of Indian classical performance. The actual purpose of the festival is to offer classical dance in an atmosphere, they were originally presented in. The Sun temple has a rich history and presents an impressive sight during the festival. According to legends, the temple was built during the reign of the Solanki kng Bhimdev I. The temple was built to commemorate the magnificence of the Sun God. The temple is mesmerizing and thus it is chosen as a site for the dance festival. Modhera dance festival promotes the performing arts of Gujarat that includes classical dance and music. The festival is also graced by classical dances and Gujarati folk dance performances. Modhera Dance Festival is a celebration that highlights one of the glorious past of the place.
Modhera Dance Festival displays the aptitude of several leading exponents from the whole country. The festival witnesses the elegance of Vaijyanti, a Kuchipudi dancer, Kathak dancer, Padmashree Kumidini Lakhia and Parul Shah, Bharat Natyam Dancer. The dance festival is also renowned as the Uttered Mahotsav. The festival has gained popularity as it showcases the participation of the leading enthusiasts such as Padma Vibhushan Sonal Mansingh and her group as well as Bharat Natyam dancer Ilakshiben Thakore.
