Gandhinagar, May 11: Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the ‘Somnath Amrit Mahotsav’ and several other significant events in Gujarat’s Somnath on Monday. During the occasion, he unveiled a commemorative postage stamp and a coin related to the Somnath Temple. Addressing a large gathering, he highlighted the spiritual, cultural, and historical significance of Somnath Dham.
In his speech, PM Modi stated, “Today, India is advancing its heritage alongside development. The reconstruction of Somnath after independence symbolized the rise of India’s self-respect. Lord Mahadev is eternal, beyond time, and embodies the essence of time itself.”
He noted that the celebration marks the 75th anniversary of the consecration of Lord Somnath’s idol. He described it as a symbol of India’s faith, renaissance, and cultural consciousness. Expressing his devotion, he mentioned that he has visited Somnath multiple times as a dedicated devotee. Referring to the ‘Somnath Swabhimaan Parv,’ he shared that connecting with this sacred site has always been a special and emotional experience for him.
“I have come here many times as a devoted follower of Dada Somnath and have often bowed before him. However, this visit feels particularly joyful. Just a few months ago, we celebrated the Somnath Swabhimaan Parv. Even after a thousand years of destruction, the pride of Somnath’s immortality and the 75 years of this modern consecration are not just two events; they are part of a divine journey of a thousand years that Lord Shiva has granted us,” he remarked.
PM Modi continued, “Today, we celebrate the 75 years of the idol’s consecration, which represents the divine essence of Mahadev, from whom creation emerges and into whom it merges. This Amrit Mahotsav is a manifestation of the divine play of Lord Sadashiv.”
He added, “Today, the sacred region of Prabhas Patan is filled with an extraordinary aura. The beauty of Mahadev, the floral tributes from earth and sky, the vibrance of saffron flags, the stunning performances of art, music, and dance, the chanting of Vedic mantras, and the uninterrupted recitation of the Shiva Panchakshari in the sanctum, all resonate with the waves of the sea, as if the entire creation is proclaiming – Jai Somnath.”
On this grand occasion, PM Modi extended heartfelt congratulations to all citizens and countless devotees of Somnath. He also noted that May 11 holds additional significance as it marks the anniversary of India’s nuclear tests at Pokhran in 1998. “On this day, the nation conducted three nuclear tests, showcasing India’s strength and capabilities to the world, creating a stir globally,” he stated.
He emphasized, “75 years ago, the restoration of the Somnath Temple took place. This was no ordinary event. If India gained independence in 1947, then the consecration of Somnath in 1951 proclaimed India’s awakening. During independence, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel united over 500 princely states into one India. Through the reconstruction of Somnath, he conveyed to the world that India was not only free but also on the path to reclaiming its ancient glory.”
He remarked that after May 11, the world reacted strongly against India. While scientists completed their work on May 11, two more nuclear tests were conducted on May 13, demonstrating India’s political will. At that time, the world pressured India, but the BJP government, led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, proved that the nation is paramount. No power in the world can bend India or exert pressure on it.
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