Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the restoration of the Somnath Temple in 1951 symbolised the proclamation of India’s spirit of independence and reflected the country’s determination to reclaim its ancient glory.
Addressing the ‘Somnath Amrut Mahotsav’ celebrations in Gujarat, PM Modi participated in several rituals and ceremonies marking 75 years since the reconstructed temple was inaugurated by India’s first President, Dr Rajendra Prasad, following restoration efforts led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
Beginning his address with chants of ‘Har Har Mahadev’, the Prime Minister highlighted the spiritual significance of the occasion. Vedic chants and devotional ceremonies also continued at the temple during the event.
Calling the restoration of the temple a defining moment in independent India’s history, PM Modi said the consecration of Somnath in 1951 carried a message far beyond religion.
“If India became independent in 1947, then the consecration of Somnath in 1951 marked the proclamation of India’s spirit of independence,” he said.
The Prime Minister noted that Sardar Patel unified more than 500 princely states to shape modern India. He added that Patel also sent a message to the world through the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple. According to PM Modi, the effort showed that India had embarked on the path of reclaiming its ancient heritage.
Recalling his repeated visits to the temple, PM Modi said he has visited Somnath several times over the years. He added that the journey to the temple feels like travelling through centuries of history and spiritual consciousness.
During the event, PM Modi released a commemorative stamp and coin dedicated to the sacred shrine. He also participated in rituals including Jalabhishek, Maha Puja and Dhwaj Pooja.
The ceremony used holy water collected from 11 pilgrimage sites across the country.
Before reaching the temple complex, the Prime Minister held a roadshow in Somnath where large crowds gathered to welcome him.
Artists from different parts of the country performed along the route as part of the celebrations.
Also Read: PM Modi Participates In Somnath Amrut Mahotsav Marking Temple’s 75th Year
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