Modhera Dance Festival
Past17 - 18 January 2026
Sun Temple, Modhera, Mehsana District, Gujarat
Last updated: 16 Jan 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.
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.
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Venue
Sun Temple, Modhera, Mehsana District, Gujarat