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A brief history of Modasa
History of Sabarkantha area
Reference to Modasa in one of the oldest Gujarati Poetry
A brief history of Modasa
The history of Modasa dates back thousands of years. We believe
that region around Modasa has been populated since the days of
Indus valley civilization. Many architectural items, coins, religious
artifacts, brick etc. are found at excavation sites around Modasa.
These findings are testimonial of prominent role Modasa played
during various periods of Indian history. Modasa has been place of
significance in the times of Mauryas, Shatvahns, Kshtraps Guptas,
Maritrakas, Rastrakutas etc.
It is believed that Modasa is refereed as Maulayashah tirth in Skand
puran. Also a more than 2000 year old stone has been found that
refers to place as Mandasan. It is also claimed that in past Modasa
was called Modhak vas or Mohadakvas. Though it is not clear
where this name came from.
Modasa has been referred to in many religious stories from past.
Temples of many diverse faith and religion are found through out the
town. Among Hindus, Jains and Shiva worshipers dominated town
for many years. Pusti marg was introduced only about 300 years
ago. Those interested in studying details on temples in Modasa may
refer to Modasa in Print.
The architectural sites around Modasa indicate that once there was a
Kote (wall) around the town. Also there are indications that the
kote was been destroyed many times. Though details are limited it is
believed that town was sacked in past by armies from Muslims
subas of Gujarat as well as Marthas.
During British rule though most of the area around Modasa was
under state of Idar, Modasa was under direct control of British
government in India. This might have brought some stability in the
late 19th century. During the days of independent struggle, led by
Mahatama Gandhi, Modasa participated very actively. Starting from
1930’s Modasa was vibrant place for the non-violent styagrah
movement.
(The history presented is here is based on limited information I
gathered from various sources. If you have better information
please
contribute.)
History of Sabarkantha area
Since information on the history of Modasa is sketchy – I would
expand horizons. I believe that the history Sabarkantha should give
us good idea of activities around the region.
Sabarkantha means it is province of river Sabar and Hathmati.
Many towns, temples, step-wells are scattered around the region.
The most famous among all is Gadadhar temple of Shamalaji. Build
more than 500 years ago, the temple is one of the finest example of
Hindu architecture of that period. There are many other important
religious places around Meshawa river in Shamalaji. The tribal fair
of Shamalaji held on Hindu new year is considered largest of its kind
in Gujarat.
Himatnagar was established by Ahmadshah (founder of
Ahmedabad) on the bank of river Hathmati as summer resort. The
name Himmatnagar was given by Maharaja Pratapsinhji. Kajivav
build in 1522, and Jama Masjid are monuments of Muslim rule in
Himmatnagar.
Idar was the original province in the region. Many years ago Bhil
kings ruled the hilly area with thick forest - not much forest is left
now. It is believed that predecessors of Bapa Raval defeated bhils
and established the Idar town. There are many historical sites
on the hill in Idar. Jain temples build by Kumarpal, Step well of
Asha Dabhi, temple of Vajara mata, kund and palace of rana of
Idar.
Vadali not very far from Idar has been referred by Chinese
visitor
Yuan Chwang who visited Vallabhi in the 8th centaury. Yuan
Chwang's description of region indicates presence of large town with
cultured civilization in the area. Many step wells in the area are quite
famous for their architecture and reminds us of glorious past.
Khedbrahma is another town near Modasa with many historical
links. Chuturmukh brahmaji temple, Ambaji temple etc are well
known sites.
Based on what we have seen so far it is quite clear that Modasa and
the area around Modasa has always been significant part of our
civilization. We are very proud of our heritage over centuries.
(Based on : Glory of Gujarat, by Rajnee Vyas).
Reference to Modasa in one of the oldest Gujarati
Poetry
Modasa is referred in one of the oldest Gujarati poetry
Kanhadadeprabandha (c. 1456) written by Padmanabha
of Visalanagara. When All-ud-din's army marched to
Gujarat in thirteenth century, Modasa was first to offer
resistance ..., Please read article by K. M. Munshi for
details.
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