Modhera Dance Festival 2026
Experience the ethereal beauty of the Modhera Dance Festival 2026, officially known as Uttarardh Mahotsav. Held at the 11th-century Sun Temple in Modhera, this festival celebrates India's guru-shishya (teacher-disciple) classical dance heritage against the backdrop of Gujarat's most magnificent architectural wonder. --- ### Quick Guide for Visitors | What You Need to Know | Official 2026 Information | | :--- | :--- | | **Dates** | January 17 to January 18, 2026 | | **Location** | Sun Temple, Modhera, Mehsana District, Gujarat | | **Entry Fee** | Free (Open public invitation) | | **Nearest Airport** | Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad (95 km) | | **Nearest Station** | Mehsana Junction (25 km) | #### Event Timings and Activities * **Performance Start:** 6:30 PM IST on both evenings. * **Evening Transformation:** The temple complex is professionally illuminated, using the intricate carvings and the Surya Kund (stepwell) as a dramatic stage. * **Sightseeing:** The Sun Temple remains open for regular tourist visits from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM before the event transition. --- ### 2026 Highlights * **Diverse Dance Forms:** A showcase of seven classical forms: Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Kathakali, and Sattriya. * **Opening Night (Jan 17):** Features performances by Raminder Khurana, Meenakshi Shrian, Peri Krishna Harshita, Maya Kulshreshtha, Shruti Bandopadhyay, and Beena Mehta. * **Closing Night (Jan 18):** Features Manikandan A, Khushbu Panchal, Jugnu Kiran Kapadia, Madhuri Majmudar, Dimple Saikia, Pushpita Mishra, and Arya Nande. * **Historical Significance:** The festival marks "Uttarardh," the period when the sun begins its northward movement (Uttarayan), symbolizing renewal and light. * **Organization:** Jointly hosted by the Gujarat Tourism Corporation and the Department of Sports, Youth, and Cultural Activities. --- ### Useful Tips for Your Trip * **Weather Preparation:** January nights in North Gujarat can be chilly. Expect temperatures between 12°C and 15°C; carrying a warm shawl or light jacket is recommended. * **Seating:** Entry is free and seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. It is highly recommended to be seated by 5:45 PM. * **Photography:** Mobile photography is permitted, but flash is discouraged during performances. Use of drones or professional tripods usually requires prior ASI permission. * **Transport:** Mehsana is well-connected by road to Ahmedabad. State transport (GSRTC) and private taxis are readily available for the 2-hour drive. * **Nearby Attractions:** Plan a daytime visit to Rani-ki-Vav (UNESCO World Heritage Site) in Patan, located just 35 km from Modhera.
17th to 18th January 2026