NewKerala.com

Somnath's 1,000-Year Journey of Immortality: PM Modi on Temple’s Divine Play

Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a commemorative stamp and coin for the 75th anniversary of the Somnath Temple’s reconstruction. He described the temple’s journey as a "divine play" of Lord Shiva and a 1,000-year journey of immortality. Modi highlighted Somnath’s resilience, calling it a symbol of devotion and strength despite centuries of destruction. The celebrations at Prabhas Patan featured Vedic chants, art, and a spiritually charged atmosphere.

Key Points: Somnath’s 1,000-Year Journey of Immortality: PM Modi

  • PM Modi releases commemorative stamp and coin for Somnath Temple’s 75th reconstruction anniversary
  • He describes Somnath’s journey as a "divine play" of Lord Shiva
  • PM calls the temple a symbol of immortality and strength after centuries
  • The celebrations feature Vedic chants, art, and spiritual energy at Prabhas Patan
3 min read

Somnath's journey is "divine play" of Lord Shiva, a 1000-year journey of immortality: PM Modi

PM Modi releases stamp and coin for Somnath Temple’s 75th reconstruction anniversary, calling its story a divine play and a 1,000-year journey of immortality.

"Even 1000 years after the first destruction, there is the pride of Somnath being indestructible - PM Modi"

Gir Somnath, May 11

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday released a commemorative stamp and coin to mark the 75th anniversary of the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple and highlighted its spiritual and cultural significance.

Addressing the gathering during the Somnath Amrit Mahotsav celebrations, the Prime Minister described the occasion as part of the "divine play" of Lord Sadashiv and recalled his long spiritual association with the temple.

"All of this is the divine play (Leela) of Lord Sadashiv. As a devoted seeker of Dada Somnath, I have come here countless times; countless times I have bowed my head before Him. But today, as I was arriving, this journey through time was providing a blissful experience. Just a few months ago when I came here, we were celebrating the 'Somnath Swabhiman Parv' (Festival of Somnath's Self-Respect)," he said.

The Prime Minister said the country was celebrating the 75th anniversary of the idol consecration of Lord Mahadev at the temple and termed the Somnath Amrit Mahotsav a symbol of devotion, resilience and continuity.

"Time itself manifests by His will; He who is beyond time (Kaala-teet) and He who is the very embodiment of time (Kaal-swaroop)--today, we are celebrating the 75th anniversary of the idol consecration (Vigrah Pratishtha) of that God of Gods, Mahadev. This universe, which is created from Him and eventually dissolves into Him--today, we celebrate the festival of the reconstruction of His holy abode. He who became Neelkanth by consuming the Halahal (cosmic poison)--today, under His very protection, the Somnath Amrit Mahotsav is taking place," he said.

PM Modi further said that Somnath continues to symbolise immortality and strength even centuries after its destruction.

"Even 1000 years after the first destruction, there is the pride of Somnath being indestructible (Avinashi); and today, the 75th year of the consecration of this modern form--we haven't just become part of two events. Lord Shiva has given us the opportunity to experience a 1000-year-long journey of immortality (Amrit Yatra)," said PM Modi.

Highlighting the atmosphere at Prabhas Patan during the celebrations, the Prime Minister said the entire region was immersed in devotion and spiritual energy.

"Today, the sacred land of Prabhas Patan is filled with a divine radiance. This manifestation of Mahadev, the shower of flowers from the sky, the magnificent presentations of art, music, and dance, the chanting of Vedic mantras, the uninterrupted recitation of the Shiva Panchakshari in the sanctum sanctorum, and along with all this, the triumphant roar of the ocean waves--it feels as though the entire creation is chanting together: Jai Somnath," he said.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

M
Michael C
Impressive to see how deeply religious symbolism and cultural identity are interwoven in India. As an outsider, it's fascinating how a temple's reconstruction after 1000 years is celebrated as a national milestone.
V
Vikram M
While I respect the cultural significance, I wish the government would also highlight the archaeological and historical aspects more. The Somnath temple's story isn't just about divine play - it's about resilience against invasions and preservation of heritage. But yes, a proud day for Gujarat and India. 🇮🇳
S
Sarah B
The poetic language used by the PM - "divine play of Lord Sadashiv" and "1000-year journey of immortality" - really captures the spiritual essence. Even as someone from a different faith background, I can feel the devotion in his words. Beautiful ceremony.
P
Priya S
What strikes me most is the continuity - from the ancient temple destroyed by Mahmud Ghazni in 1026 AD to its reconstruction in 1951 by Sardar Patel, and now this 75th anniversary celebration. It's like our civilization's phoenix story! The PM's reference to consuming Halahal poison is also so apt - we Indians have been consuming poisons of invasions and colonialism for centuries and still stand tall. 🙏
D
David E
The merging of politics and religion always makes me a bit uneasy, but I have to admit - the Somnath story is genuinely inspiring. A temple destroyed and rebuilt multiple times over a millennium, now a symbol of national pride. The PM's personal connection seems heartfelt here, not just political rhetoric.

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

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50