Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the enduring faith of devotees and the civilisational resolve of Bharat ensured that the Somnath Temple was rebuilt repeatedly despite centuries of destruction.
Extending greetings on the commencement of Somnath Swabhiman Parv, the Prime Minister said the event honours generations who remained steadfast in their principles and cultural values. Recalling that Somnath faced its first attack in January 1026, Mr Modi noted that subsequent assaults failed to diminish the temple’s spiritual significance, which has lived on in the hearts of millions for over a thousand years.
The Prime Minister shared memories from his previous visits to Somnath and invited people to participate in the celebrations by sharing their experiences using the hashtag #SomnathSwabhimanParv. He also recalled the programme held on 31 October 2001 to mark 50 years since the rebuilt Somnath Temple was inaugurated in 1951 in the presence of then President Dr Rajendra Prasad.
Mr Modi highlighted the role of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, K M Munshi and other leaders in the reconstruction of the temple, calling their efforts pivotal. He noted that 2026 will mark 75 years since the temple was rededicated to the nation, describing the occasion as a symbol of India’s indomitable civilisational spirit.
The Prime Minister will attend the Somnath Swabhiman Parv on 11 January. The year-long celebrations will feature a series of spiritual, cultural and social activities, including a large-scale drone show, a continuous 72-hour Omkar Naad and a grand Shaurya Yatra.