About this stamp
The Surya Kund is a magnificent stepwell situated within the Sun Temple complex at Modhera, a small town in the Mehsana district of Gujarat. Built during 1026–27 AD by King Bhimdev I of the Solanki dynasty, this architectural marvel is dedicated to Surya, the Sun God, and stands as a testament to India’s advanced engineering and artistic excellence during the 11th century.
The Surya Kund, also known as the Ramkund, is a large rectangular stepped water tank located in front of the Sun Temple. It served as a sacred reservoir where devotees performed ritual ablutions before offering prayers to the Sun deity. The stepwell exemplifies perfect geometric precision—its cascading terraces and symmetrically arranged steps create a mesmerizing pattern that reflects the aesthetic brilliance of the Solanki era.
Along the steps of the tank are 108 miniature shrines, each dedicated to various Hindu deities, adding to the spiritual grandeur of the site. Leading to the kund is a beautifully carved Kirti-Torana, an ornamental gateway adorned with intricate motifs and an ox-head gargoyle, serving as a symbolic water spout.
Beyond its religious significance, the Surya Kund demonstrates the ancient Indian mastery of combining utility with art, where water conservation, ritual practice, and aesthetic design coexisted harmoniously. Recognized as one of the finest examples of stepwell architecture in India, it continues to inspire architects and historians worldwide.
Commemorative Postage Stamp
To honour India’s glorious stepwell heritage, the Department of Posts has issued a commemorative postage stamp on Surya Kund, Modhera. The stamp beautifully captures the grandeur of this sun-lit reservoir, celebrating its spiritual essence, geometric artistry, and the enduring legacy of India’s ancient architectural traditions.
