NewKerala.com

Ancient Inscription Reveals Somnath Temple's Epic Rebuilds Across Four Yugas

A significant inscription from 1169 CE, preserved at the Bhadrakali Temple in Prabhas Patan, chronicles the legendary history of the Somnath Temple. It details mythical reconstructions of the temple in each of the four yugas, attributing builds to figures like Ravana and Lord Krishna. The record also highlights the historical reconstruction by King Bhimdev Solanki and later by King Kumarapala in the 12th century. This epigraphic evidence underscores Prabhas Patan's role as a major religious and architectural center during Gujarat's Solanki Golden Age.

Key Points: Bhadrakali Inscription Chronicles Somnath Temple's Timeless Legacy

  • Inscription from 1169 CE details temple's history
  • Chronicles legendary builds across four yugas
  • Highlights King Kumarapala's 12th-century reconstruction
  • Preserved at ancient Bhadrakali Temple site
2 min read

Bhadrakali Temple inscription chronicles Somnath Temple's timeless legacy and Kumarapala's role in its revival

A 1169 CE inscription in Gujarat details the Somnath Temple's legendary reconstruction across four yugas and King Kumarapala's historic role.

"This inscription records the ancient and medieval history of the Somnath Temple. - Tejal Parmar, Curator"

Gandhinagar, January 11

Prabhas Patan preserves a rich and sacred past, with copper plate, inscriptions and memorial stones reflecting its prosperity, heritage, and enduring spirit of valour.

Epigraphic records and authenticated remains revealing the history of Prabhas Patan and the Somnath Temple are found across the Prabhas region. Inscriptions, copper plates, and remnants of the temple destroyed during invasions are preserved at the Prabhas Patan Museum as symbols of valour, strength, and devotion. The museum currently functions from the ancient Sun Temple at Prabhas Patan, according to a release.

One such inscription is located near the museum in Prabhas Patan, beside the old Ram Temple in Bhadrakali lane. Preserved at the residence of Sompura Brahmin Dipakbhai Dave, it remains embedded in the wall of the ancient Bhadrakali Temple in his courtyard.

Providing details, the Curator (Museum Head) of the Prabhas Patan Museum, Tejal Parmar, stated that this inscription, carved in 1169 CE (Valabhi Samvat 850 and Vikram Samvat 1255) and currently protected by the State Department of Archaeology, is a eulogistic inscription of Param Pashupata Acharya Shriman Bhavabrihaspati, the spiritual preceptor of Maharajadhiraj Kumarapala of Anhilwad Patan. This inscription records the ancient and medieval history of the Somnath Temple. It mentions the construction of Somnath Mahadev in all four yugas. Accordingly, in the Satya Yuga, Chandra (Soma) built it of gold; in the Treta Yuga, Ravana built it of silver; in the Dvapara Yuga, Lord Krishna built it of wood; and in the Kali Yuga, King Bhimdev Solanki constructed a beautifully artistic stone temple, the release stated.

History confirms that Bhimdev Solanki built the fourth temple on the earlier remains, followed by the fifth temple constructed by Kumarapala in 1169 CE at the same site. Under the Solanki rule, Prabhas Patan emerged as a major centre of religion, architecture, and literature, while the justice of Siddharaj Jaysinh and the devotion of Kumarapala raised Somnath as a proud symbol of Gujarat's Golden Age.

The sacred land of Prabhas Patan holds not just ruins but the spiritual pride of Sanatan Dharma. The historic Bhadrakali inscription reflects the devotion of the Solanki rulers and scholars like Bhavabrihaspati. Through its rich legacy of art, architecture, and literature, this land continues to inspire future generations, while the heritage of Prabhas and the enduring pinnacle of Somnath affirm that devotion and self-respect remain timeless, the release added.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
It's heartening to see such detailed historical records being preserved by families like the Sompura Brahmins and the state archaeology department. Our history is not just in textbooks but in our homes and temples.
V
Vikram M
Kumarapala and the Solanki dynasty's contribution to Gujarat's golden age is immense. We need more articles like this that highlight our indigenous rulers and scholars, not just the invaders. Proud of this heritage.
S
Sarah B
As someone visiting Gujarat soon, this makes me want to add Prabhas Patan Museum to my itinerary. The layers of history here, from the Sun Temple to these inscriptions, sound incredible.
R
Rohit P
While the article is informative, I wish it provided more critical context about the multiple destructions and reconstructions. The timeline can be complex for the average reader. Still, a good piece on our cultural resilience.
N
Nisha Z
The mention of Ravana building it in silver during Treta Yuga is interesting! It shows even figures often seen as antagonists in our epics had devotion. Our history and mythology are never black and white.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50