Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a significant 'Shaurya Yatra' or 'Valour Journey' at the historic Somnath Temple in Gujarat on Sunday. This event marked the commencement of a four-day national commemoration, observing a millennium of unwavering faith and resilience since the first recorded attack on the temple by Mahmud of Ghazni in January 1026.
Tributes to Legacy and Sacrifice
During the solemn occasion, the Prime Minister paid heartfelt tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, whose relentless efforts were pivotal in the restoration of the Somnath Temple after India gained independence. Modi also honored the memory of the countless, unnamed warriors who sacrificed their lives defending the sacred site through the centuries.
Visuals from the event captured PM Modi standing in an open vehicle, decorated with flowers, as the procession wound its way through the town. He was accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi. The Prime Minister was seen enthusiastically blowing a conch shell and greeting massive crowds that lined the route to catch a glimpse of the procession.
A Grand Procession with 108 Horses
A central and majestic feature of the yatra was the participation of 108 horses from the Gujarat Police Mounted Unit. Officials stated that this mounted contingent played a core ceremonial role in the procession.
DIG Rajendrasinh Chudasama provided details, explaining that the unit featured locally bred Kathiawadi and Marwadi horse breeds. He emphasized that the animals were not just participants but had undergone a rigorous, eight-month specialized training program specifically to prepare for their role in the Shaurya Yatra.
"The horses have been trained for the Shaurya Yatra for eight months," Chudasama told ANI, highlighting the extensive preparations behind the visually stunning spectacle.
Wide Participation from Saints and Students
The event saw participation from diverse sections of society. Several saints, seers, and groups of children were present to welcome the Prime Minister. A notable contingent came from the Brahmarshi Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya in Kheda district's Nadiad.
Sanjay Brahmbhatt from the institution reported that approximately 350 students and teachers, including Dahyabhai Shastri, had travelled to Somnath to be part of the historic march. "Our children will play the conch (shankh) and damru, and we will lead the procession ahead of the horses," Brahmbhatt stated.
Before leading the yatra, Prime Minister Modi offered prayers at the sanctum sanctorum of the Somnath Temple. He also took time to interact with 'Rishikumar' and artists who were present for the event.
The Shaurya Yatra forms a pivotal part of the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, a symbolic observance that celebrates the courage, sacrifice, and indomitable spirit that ensured the temple's survival and continual rebirth through centuries of trials.
