Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, whose efforts were instrumental in restoring the Somnath Temple after Independence.
He also honoured the warriors who laid down their lives defending the shrine across centuries.
The Somnath Swabhiman Parv celebrates the temple’s enduring legacy as a symbol of India’s civilisational courage and spiritual resilience, marking 1,000 years since the first attack on the temple in 1026.
This year marks 75 years since the Somnath Temple’s modern reconstruction in 1951, led by Sardar Patel and KM Munshi and inaugurated by then President Dr Rajendra Prasad.
In a blog post, PM Modi recalled how Patel’s 1947 Diwali visit inspired the restoration, undertaken through public donations despite objections from then-PM Nehru.
As part of the celebrations, Modi participated in the Shaurya Yatra, honouring the warriors who defended Somnath.
The rhythm of the Damru, associated with Lord Shiva, filled the air as large crowds showered flowers and chanted ‘Modi-Modi’.
The Prime Minister even played the Damru while greeting devotees along the route.
Artists from Rajasthan, Punjab, Manipur, Gujarat, and other states performed traditional dances, including Mayur and Punjabi folk dances, adding vibrancy to the event.
Many expressed their excitement at performing in the presence of the Prime Minister, calling it a moment of pride.
After the yatra, PM Modi prayed at Somnath Temple and addressed a gathering at Sadbhavna Maidan.
He later inaugurated a trade show and the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference in Rajkot, and concluded the day in Gandhinagar by launching Phase 2 of the Ahmedabad Metro Rail Project.
The Somnath Swabhiman Parv highlights the temple’s spiritual and historical significance and honours the devotion and courage of generations who ensured its revival
Also Read: Somnath Temple Welcomes PM Modi For Shaurya Yatra & Cultural Celebrations
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