New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday recalled the stance of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, regarding the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple. Modi stated that Nehru was not in favour of the government or high constitutional offices getting involved in the temple’s rebuilding.
In his blog, PM Modi wrote that after independence, the responsibility for the restoration of Somnath Temple fell to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The temple, which was attacked in 1026 AD, left a strong impression on Patel when he visited there during Diwali in 1947. Moved by the condition of the site, he decided that the temple should be rebuilt on the same spot.
Modi noted that the Somnath Temple was reopened to devotees on 11 May 1951. The then President of India, Dr Rajendra Prasad, was present on this historic occasion.
According to PM Modi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru preferred that the government not officially participate in the temple’s reconstruction. Nehru was also against the presence of the President and ministers at the reopening ceremony, fearing it could harm India’s image. However, President Dr Rajendra Prasad remained firm in his decision and attended the event.
Prime Minister Modi pointed out that unfortunately, Sardar Patel was not alive to witness this historic day, but his vision was realised before the nation. Modi wrote, “The then Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was not very enthusiastic about this event. He did not want the honourable President and ministers to be part of the ceremony, believing it would tarnish India’s image. But Rajendra Babu stood firm, and what followed created a new chapter in history.”
PM Modi also mentioned K.M. Munshi’s significant role in the Somnath Temple project, highlighting his full support for Sardar Patel. Modi described Munshi’s book, ‘Somnath, The Shrine Eternal’, as highly insightful, reflecting India’s civilisational philosophy that believes in the immortality of the soul and ideas.
He added, “We believe – ‘Nainam Chindanti Shastrani Nainam Dahati Pavakah’. The physical structure of Somnath was destroyed, but its consciousness remained immortal. These ideas have given us the strength to rise, become stronger, and move forward in every era and circumstance. It is because of these values and the resolve of our people that the world today looks at India with hope and confidence. The world wants to invest in our innovative youth. Our art, culture, music, and festivals are gaining global recognition. Yoga and Ayurveda are influencing the entire world, promoting healthy living. Today, the world looks to India for solutions to many global challenges.”
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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