PM Modi to Attend Somnath Swabhiman Parv, Highlights Temple's Resilient Legacy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Somnath on January 11 to participate in the Somnath Swabhiman Parv celebrations, a year-long series of spiritual and cultural activities. In a detailed blog post, he reflected on the temple's history, marking 1000 years since its first destruction by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026 AD. The Prime Minister emphasized the temple's story as one of unbreakable courage and civilizational resilience, rather than destruction. He also highlighted the pivotal roles of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and K. M. Munshi in its reconstruction and noted historical opposition from Jawaharlal Nehru.

Key Points: PM Modi at Somnath Swabhiman Parv, Reflects on Temple's History

  • PM Modi's Jan 11 visit to Somnath
  • Year-long spiritual & cultural events
  • Blog reflects on 1026 AD first attack
  • Highlights Patel & Munshi's reconstruction role
  • Notes Nehru's opposition to President's participation
2 min read

PM Modi to participate in Somnath Swabhiman Parv celebrations on January 11

PM Narendra Modi to visit Somnath on Jan 11 for Swabhiman Parv, penning a blog on the temple's 1000-year story of destruction and resurrection.

"The story of Somnath... is not defined by destruction. It is defined by the unbreakable courage of crores of children of Bharat Mata. - Prime Minister Narendra Modi"

New Delhi, January 5

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Somnath on January 11 to participate in the Somnath Swabhiman Parv celebrations.

A year-long series of spiritual, cultural and social activities will be organised at Somnath to commemorate the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, officials said.

The Somnath Swabhiman Parv will be observed from January 8 to January 11, during which a range of programmes highlighting India's spiritual heritage, cultural pride and social values will be held.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi penned an 'OpEd', reflecting on the story of destruction and resurrection of the Somnath temple, asserting that hearing the word "Somnath" instils a sense of pride in hearts and minds.

PM recalled that the first destruction of the revered shrine took place exactly 1,000 years ago in 1026 AD, underscoring how, despite repeated attacks over the centuries, the temple stands in unparalleled glory.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a blog post, highlighted the enduring spirit of India's civilisation while reflecting on the legacy of the Somnath temple, saying, "The story of Somnath, a thousand years after the first attack, is not defined by destruction. It is defined by the unbreakable courage of crores of children of Bharat Mata."

Emphasising the resilience and continuity of India's cultural heritage, the Prime Minister added, "There can be no better example of our civilisation's indomitable spirit than Somnath, which stands gloriously, overcoming odds and struggles."

According to the blog, PM Modi mentioned the book Somanatha: The Shrine Eternal, where K. M. Munshi records that Mahmud of Ghazni began his march towards Somnath on 18 October 1025 and, approximately 80 days later, on 6 January 1026, attacked the fortified temple town.

He also mentioned that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a decisive and historic role in re-constructing the temple on November 13, 1947, and K. M. Munshi stood firmly with Patel.

The Prime Minister said that in 1951, the Somnath temple was ready for inauguration; however, PM Nehru opposed the participation of President Dr. Rajendra Prasad in the temple's inauguration.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Shreya B
While celebrating our history is important, I hope the focus remains on the spiritual and cultural aspects for all citizens, rather than political narratives. The temple's reconstruction by Sardar Patel is a unifying chapter we should all remember.
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Arjun K
The historical details mentioned by PM Modi are fascinating. 1026 AD... it's incredible to think about the scale of time and the temple's survival. More such events are needed to educate our youth about our rich past.
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Priya S
The mention of Nehruji's opposition is a bit disappointing. Can we not just appreciate the temple's glory and the efforts of Sardar Patel and Munshiji without bringing in divisive historical politics? Let's focus on the positive celebration.
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Vikram M
As someone from Gujarat, feeling proud! Somnath is not just a temple; it's a testament to the spirit of India. Hope the year-long activities include things that benefit the local community and economy as well.
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Michael C
Visiting India next month and now I'm intrigued! The depth of history here is astounding. A temple standing for a millennium through so much... it puts a lot in perspective. Will try to visit if possible.

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