Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, a year-long celebration marking the resilience of Indian civilization and the historic Somnath temple. The event, which began on Thursday, is a tribute to the unwavering spirit of the nation's people.
Remembering the Uncompromising Spirit
In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister framed the event as a remembrance of the countless children of Bharat Mata who never compromised with their principles and ethos. He emphasized that their resolve remained unshaken through daunting times.
PM Modi is scheduled to personally participate in the celebrations at the iconic Somnath temple in Veraval on January 11. He recalled that a thousand years ago, in January 1026, the temple faced its first major attack. "The attack of 1026 and the subsequent attacks couldn't diminish the eternal faith of millions, nor break the civilisational spirit that rebuilt Somnath time and again," he stated.
A Legacy of Reconstruction and Faith
The Prime Minister paid homage to the key figures behind the temple's modern reconstruction. He noted the noteworthy efforts of Sardar Patel and K M Munshi. He also recalled a major program in 2001 attended by then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Home Minister L.K. Advani, and other dignitaries.
Looking ahead, Modi pointed out that 2026 will mark 75 years since the grand consecration ceremony of 1951. The current celebrations set the stage for this upcoming milestone.
Grand Celebrations and Soaring Devotion
The launch event was marked by grand ceremonies. The blowing of conch shells and the continuous recitation of Vedic chants, known as 'Akhand Omkar Jap', inaugurated the parv. Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Gujarat Ministers Jitu Vaghani and Dr. Pradyman Vaja were present.
A remarkable feature is the gathering of nearly 2,500 'rishi kumars' or young priests from across Gujarat. They will recite the Omkar mantra continuously for 72 hours at the temple. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel offered prayers at Dholeshwar Mahadev temple in Gandhinagar and joined the mantra recitation, stating that under PM Modi's leadership, India is proudly showcasing its heritage.
Devotional fervor reached Veraval railway station as a special train from Rajkot arrived, with chants of "Har Har Bhole" and "Jai Somnath" filling the air. More special trains from Ahmedabad, Surat, and Vadodara are scheduled over the next three days.
Somnath Temple: A Beacon of Growth and Connectivity
The temple's significance continues to grow in modern times. It attracts approximately 97 lakh (9.7 million) devotees annually, with peak footfall during Shravan and Maha Shivratri. Improved infrastructure has played a key role:
- The Jetpur–Somnath four-lane highway has eased road travel.
- The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express train service.
- Operational airports at Keshod and Rajkot.
This enhanced connectivity has significantly improved pilgrim access. Reflecting its soaring popularity, the Somnath temple now ranks among India's top 10 most searched tourist destinations, amplifying its presence on both national and global stages. Prime Minister Modi also serves as the chairman of the Shri Somnath Trust, overseeing the temple's affairs.
