New Delhi, May 8: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the 75th anniversary celebration of the inauguration of the reconstructed Somnath Temple on May 11. In a recent article, he expressed his sentiments dedicated to the magnificent Somnath Dham. He emphasized that this occasion reminds us of the continuous struggle by generations to protect and reconstruct this sacred site.
On Friday, PM Modi shared his article on the social media platform ‘X’. He wrote, “I am honored to visit the reconstructed Somnath Temple again on May 11 for its 75th inauguration anniversary. This occasion serves as a reminder of the relentless efforts by many generations to safeguard and rebuild this holy place.”
In his article, PM Modi highlighted the historical, cultural, and spiritual significance of the Somnath Temple. He noted that participating in the Somnath Swabhimaan festival at the beginning of 2026 was a significant experience for him, commemorating the thousand-year anniversary of the temple’s first attack.
He wrote, “At the beginning of 2026, I had the privilege of attending the Somnath Swabhimaan festival, celebrating the temple’s eternal and indestructible essence, even after a thousand years since its first invasion.”
PM Modi mentioned that he will visit Somnath again on May 11, where he will participate in the program marking the 75th anniversary of the temple’s inauguration. He stated, “On May 11, I will have the opportunity to visit Somnath once more. This time, the journey is to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the reconstructed Somnath Temple. I will relive the moment when India’s first President, Rajendra Prasad, inaugurated the temple. That day, the journey from destruction to creation in Somnath will come alive again. Witnessing these two significant milestones in Somnath’s history within six months is a great fortune for me.”
In his article, the Prime Minister described the Somnath Temple not merely as a religious site but as a symbol of Indian civilization and its continuity. He wrote, “Somnath is not just a temple; it is an unwavering resolve of our civilization. The vast sea before it evokes the feeling of eternity. Its waves teach us that no matter how fierce the storms may be, human courage and spirit can always rise again. The waves crashing against the shore have long proclaimed that human consciousness cannot be suppressed for long.”
He also highlighted the spiritual significance of Somnath, referencing ancient texts and identifying it as a crucial center of Shaivism. PM Modi noted, “Our ancient scriptures state, ‘Prabhasam cha parikramya prithivikramasambhavam.’ This means that circumambulating the divine Prabhas (Somnath) is akin to circumambulating the entire earth. When people come here for darshan and worship, they experience the remarkable continuity of a civilization whose light has never been extinguished. Many empires have risen and fallen, time has changed, and history has seen numerous ups and downs, yet Somnath has always remained in our hearts.”
The Prime Minister reflected on the countless great personalities who stood firm against cruel invaders. He mentioned that sages like Lakulish and Som Sharma made Prabhas a great center of Shaivism. Centuries ago, Emperor Dharsen IV built a second temple there. Despite the harsh tests of time, rulers like Bhima I, Jaipal, and Anandpal defended the temple as a shield for their civilization against invasions. It is believed that the great King Bhoj also contributed significantly to the reconstruction of this sacred site. Karnadev Solanki and Jay Singh Siddhraj played vital roles in restoring Gujarat’s political and cultural strength.
He further wrote, “Bhaav Brihaspati, Kumarapal Solanki, and Pashupatacharis made invaluable contributions to establish this pilgrimage as a center of worship and knowledge. Vishaldeo Vaghela and Tripurantak safeguarded its intellectual and spiritual traditions. Mahipal Chudasama and Rao Khangar Chudasama revived the tradition of worship after destruction. Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar, whose 300th birth anniversary is being celebrated, kept the tradition of devotion alive even in the most challenging times. The Gaekwads of Baroda protected the rights of pilgrims. Our land has also been blessed by valiant figures like Veer Hamirji Gohil and Veer Vegdaji Bhil, whose courage and sacrifice are still remembered today.”
The Prime Minister also mentioned the reconstruction movement of the 20th century, particularly highlighting Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s crucial role. In his article, PM Modi wrote, “In the 1940s, the spirit of independence was spreading across India. Under the leadership of great leaders like Sardar Patel, the foundation of a free India was being laid. One thing that deeply troubled him was the plight of Somnath. On November 13, 1947, during Diwali, he stood before the dilapidated remains of Somnath, holding seawater in his hand, and vowed, ‘This (Gujarati) New Year, we are determined to rebuild Somnath. The people of Saurashtra must contribute in every way. This is a sacred task that everyone must participate in.’ His call inspired not just Gujarat but the entire nation with renewed enthusiasm.”
He added that unfortunately, Sardar Patel could not witness the realization of that dream to which he dedicated himself. Before the Somnath Temple could open to devotees after its restoration, he bid farewell to this world. Nevertheless, his influence continues to be felt on the sacred land of Prabhas Patan. His vision was carried forward by K.M. Munshi, supported by the Jam Saheb of Nawanagar. When the temple’s reconstruction was completed in 1951, the first President, Rajendra Prasad, was invited for the inauguration.
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