PM Modi Recalls Somnath Temple Resilience
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the historical resilience of the Somnath temple as the Somnath Swabhiman Parv began in Gujarat. In a message to the nation, he marked the occasion by sharing throwback images from earlier visits to the temple and recalling its enduring significance over the centuries.
Eternal Faith Through History
Modi noted that the first recorded attack on the Somnath temple occurred 1,000 years ago, in January 1026 AD, when it was struck by forces under the Ghaznavid ruler Mahmud of Ghazni. He said that despite repeated destructions in later centuries, the temple and its spiritual significance were repeatedly revived by generations of devotees and leaders, reflecting India’s cultural continuity and unbroken faith.
The prime minister described the celebrations as a tribute to the “eternal faith” and civilisational spirit of India, emphasising that historical challenges—including invasions and damage to the temple structure—never broke the devotion of millions of followers. He encouraged citizens to remember the contributions of past leaders who helped rebuild and preserve the temple as a symbol of heritage.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
The event aims to celebrate the temple’s role as a key pilgrimage site and its place in India’s cultural fabric. Modi’s reflections underscored the idea that the temple stands not just as a religious shrine but also as a marker of collective identity and resilience, inspiring faith across communities.
