Mahoba’s experiment with the sun is moving into a new stage, moving from devotion to interpretation. Under the ‘Swadesh Darshan’ project, the town of Bundelkhand, which is home to a sun temple from the Chandela dynasty, would acquire a sun interpretation centre in an effort to establish it as a unique heritage and knowledge-based tourism destination.

As part of an integrated tourism project approved under Swadesh Darshan 2.0, the proposed centre in Mahoba will occupy an area of more than 4,210 square metres.

According to officials, UPPCL, Banda, the executing agency, has already received 10% of the approved sum, and the project is expected to be finished by the end of 2026.

The centre will interpret the cultural stories and scientific significance of the sun in Indian tradition as a thematic and experience facility.

The eight ‘prahars’ of a day—Usha, Purvanha, Madhyanha, Aparanha, Sayankal, Pradosha, Nishitha, and Triyama—would be symbolically represented in its architectural style, which will mirror ancient Indian conceptions of time and the cyclical view of life ingrained in Indic philosophy.

In keeping with the centre’s solar theme, a specially made sundial will show the time through the first rays of sunshine, giving guests a hands-on look at traditional timekeeping customs.

One of the project’s main components is sustainability. In order to encourage eco-friendly and green tourism practices, solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, grass pavers, and integrated waste management mechanisms are being added. This is in line with the larger goal of responsible destination development in the environmentally fragile Bundelkhand region.

Following significant improvements in Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Prayagraj, the programme is part of a larger effort to develop Bundelkhand’s tourism infrastructure, according to Minister of Tourism and Culture Jaiveer Singh.

According to him, Mahoba saw close to 28 lakh tourists in 2025, highlighting both the city’s expanding tourism potential and the demand for better interpretation services.

According to Amrit Abhijat, additional chief secretary (tourism), the centre would have interactive galleries that combine science, religion, and mythology.

One exhibition would use architectural models and carefully chosen displays to highlight notable Indian sun temples, such as the Konark Sun Temple, while another will contrast Surya with Helios from ancient Greek mythology.

Along with immersive 3D displays that interpret astrological concepts, dedicated parts will also teach the sun’s significance in astronomy, including seasons, calendars, and celestial movements.

According to officials, the project is anticipated to create jobs locally and boost the economy in the Bundelkhand area while also giving Mahoba a unique thematic identity on UP’s tourism map.