PM greets nation on Somnath Swabhiman Parv, recalls temple’s civilisational legacy

New Delhi, Jan 8: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended greetings to the nation on the commencement of Somnath Swabhiman Parv, recalling the enduring civilisational spirit that has kept the Somnath Temple alive in the hearts of millions for more than a thousand years.

In a series of posts on X, the Prime Minister noted that Somnath faced its first attack in January 1026 and endured repeated assaults in the centuries that followed.

Despite this, he said, the faith of devotees and the resolve of Bharat’s civilization ensured that the temple was rebuilt time and again. “Somnath Swabhiman Parv is about remembering the countless children of Bharat Mata who never compromised with their principles and ethos. However daunting the times were, their resolve remained unshaken and their commitment to our ethos unwavering,” he said. Sharing photographs from his earlier visits to Somnath, Modi invited citizens to participate in the celebrations by posting their own memories using the hashtag #SomnathSwabhimanParv.

The Prime Minister also recalled a programme held at Somnath on October 31, 2001, marking 50 years since the rebuilt temple was opened to the public in 1951 in the presence of then President Rajendra Prasad. He highlighted the role played by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, K M Munshi and others in the temple’s reconstruction. The 2001 event coincided with the 125th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel and was attended by then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Home Minister L K Advani and other dignitaries. Looking ahead, PM Modi said 2026 will mark 75 years since the temple’s rededication in 1951. “This milestone is not just about the reconstruction of a temple, but about the indomitable spirit of our civilisation that continues to inspire generations,” he said.