Somnath Mandir: PM Modi calls temple timeless source of inspiration
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday described the Somnath Temple in Gujarat as a timeless symbol of divine presence, saying its sacred legacy continues to inspire and guide generations.
The Prime Minister is on a three-day visit to Gujarat to participate in the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, a national commemoration marking 1,000 years of unbroken faith and resilience since the first recorded attack on the temple in January 1026 by Mahmud of Ghazni. The four-day event is being observed from January 8 to 11.
Sharing his thoughts in a post on X, PM Modi said Somnath stands as a beacon of eternal divinity, adding that its spiritual presence has remained a source of strength across centuries. He also shared glimpses from Saturday’s programmes, including the chanting of the Omkar Mantra and a grand drone show.
Somnath stands as a beacon of eternal divinity. Its sacred presence continues to guide people across generations. Here are highlights from yesterday’s programmes, including the Omkar Mantra chanting and drone show.#SomnathSwabhimanParv pic.twitter.com/lCZxiaauMp
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 11, 2026
On Sunday, the Prime Minister is scheduled to participate in a Shaurya Yatra beginning at Shankha Circle in Somnath at 9:45 am, followed by prayers at the Somnath Temple around 10:15 am. A major public programme is also planned at Sadbhavna Maidan, where he will address a large gathering.
Later in the afternoon, PM Modi will travel to Rajkot to inaugurate a trade show and exhibition as part of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference at Marwari University. He will also formally open the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference for the Kutch and Saurashtra regions.
In the evening, the Prime Minister will reach Gandhinagar, where he is set to launch Phase 2 of the Ahmedabad Metro Rail Project, connecting Sector 10A to Mahatma Mandir Metro Station.
The Somnath Swabhiman Parv pays tribute to the temple’s enduring legacy as a symbol of India’s civilisational courage and spiritual strength. Over centuries, the shrine has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, standing as a testament to the resolve of devotees who ensured its revival despite repeated invasions.
This year’s commemoration also marks 75 years since the modern reconstruction of the Somnath Temple, which was inaugurated in 1951 by then President Dr Rajendra Prasad, following efforts spearheaded by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel after Independence.
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