Mahoba Surya Mahotsav opens with devotion, culture, and blend of tradition and modernity

Mahoba, where history speaks through ancient stones and bravery lives on in folklore, once again witnessed a vibrant celebration of its glorious past. The land of the mighty Chandela rulers and legendary warriors Alha and Udal came alive.

On the occasion of Mahoba’s Foundation Day, the ‘Mahoba Surya Mahotsav’, earlier known as ‘Mahoba Mahotsav’, has commenced through a collaboration of the state Tourism and Culture Department along with the district administration to promote the historical and cultural significance of Mahoba’s iconic Raheliya Surya Temple.

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The seven-day festival, being held on the concept of the theme of the seven colours (VIBGYOR) reflected by the Sun from February 11 to February 17, the Mahotsav symbolises energy, heritage, and the timeless valour of the region.

Commenting on the celebration, state Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said, “Under the vision of PM Modi and the leadership of CM Yogi, the state government is committed to promoting the historical and cultural heritage of Bundelkhand, including Mahoba. The Raheliya Surya Temple reflects the architectural excellence of the Chandela dynasty, while the legacy of brave warriors Alha and Udal continues to inspire generations. Mahoba Surya Mahotsav is a step towards preserving this heritage, strengthening cultural tourism, and connecting youth with Bundelkhand’s proud history”.

The festival commenced at 5 A.M. at the Raheliya Sagar coast near the Surya Temple with the chanting of Vedic mantras and the aarti of Lord Surya at the Surya Temple, in which a huge number of devotees participated to have the experience of this devotional scene. This was followed by a grand Shobha Yatra, which proceeded from the Surya Temple to Modi Ground, marking the formal inauguration of the celebrations.

A major highlight of the Mahotsav was the first-ever Planetarium Exhibition (Taramandal Pradarshani) at the Raheliya Surya Temple, open from February 11 to 14 (9 AM to 8 PM). Visitors experienced planet viewing through telescopes, virtual reality (VR), and Surya Darshan with a special solar filter. Entry was free for students, while tickets for others were priced at ₹250. A Book Fair was also inaugurated for the first time at Modi Ground, open from February 11 to 17 (9 AM to 10 PM), aiming to provide affordable books to local residents and students, particularly government job aspirants from the nearby Kirat Sagar area.

On the other side, on the opening day, Uttar Pradesh Tourism organised a Chiteri Art Workshop to revive this traditional art form and pass it on to future generations, continuing till February 12. A Photography and Reel Making Competitions were also held, which will run till February 16, and saw enthusiastic participation from youth. Tagline Making and Jingle Making Competitions will also be organised, for which entries must be submitted by February 12.

The Mahotsav will feature several other key programmes, including a Tourism Department Convention on February 14 at Gorakhgiri Mountain, where a special camp will host discussions on tourism and history, and Tourism Policy 2022, along with a Veer Ras Poetry Conference. A Kite Festival is scheduled for February 15, followed by the inauguration of 40 ISRO Space Labs with the collaboration of ISRO on February 16. The week-long celebration will conclude on February 17 with the distribution of prizes to competition winners.

In the evening, the festival grounds came alive with folk melodies and vibrant performances. Cultural programmes, including Alha Gayan, Lok Gayan, Bundeli Band Mashup, and Bhajan Gayan, presented by artists such as Uma Shankar Sen, Abodh Soni, and others, captivated the audience and reflected the rich cultural spirit of Bundelkhand and the valour of Mahoba. Similar cultural performances will continue to be organised throughout the seven-day Mahotsav.