Says “Temple The symbol of India’s civilisational courage”
Somnath (Gujarat): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday underscored India’s enduring civilisational spirit as he participated in the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, calling the Somnath Temple a “proud symbol of our civilisational courage” while marking 1,000 years since the historic attack on the shrine in 1026.
The Prime Minister reached the Somnath Temple complex in the evening and took part in the chanting of the Omkar Mantra, a sacred recitation that will continue uninterrupted for 72 hours within the temple premises. He later witnessed a spectacular drone show that illuminated the skies over Somnath, depicting themes of courage, sacrifice and the resilience of Indian civilisation, drawing large crowds of devotees and visitors.
“Feeling blessed to be in Somnath, a proud symbol of our civilisational courage. This visit comes during Somnath Swabhiman Parv, when the entire nation has come together to mark a thousand years since the first attack on the Somnath Temple in 1026. Grateful to the people for the warm welcome,” Prime Minister Modi said in a post on X.
As part of the commemorations, the Prime Minister also participated in the Shaurya Yatra, a ceremonial procession organised to honour the countless warriors who laid down their lives defending the temple. According to a BJP official, the yatra features a symbolic procession of 108 horses, representing valour and sacrifice.
The Somnath Swabhiman Parv, being held from January 8 to 11, 2026, commemorates 1,000 years since Mahmud of Ghazni’s invasion of the Somnath Temple in 1026. Despite repeated attempts at destruction over centuries, the temple stands today as a powerful symbol of faith, resilience and national pride.
After Independence, the restoration of the Somnath Temple was undertaken under the leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. A major milestone was achieved in 1951 when the rebuilt temple was formally opened to devotees in the presence of then President Dr Rajendra Prasad. The year 2026 also marks 75 years of this historic restoration, adding special significance to the ongoing celebrations.
Hundreds of saints from across the country are participating in the Swabhiman Parv, alongside continuous chanting of ‘Om’ within the temple complex. The programme is aimed at remembering the sacrifices of citizens who defended the shrine and at inspiring future generations to remain connected to India’s cultural consciousness.
The Prime Minister is scheduled to continue his engagements on Sunday, January 11. At around 9:45 am, he will again take part in the Shaurya Yatra, followed by darshan and pooja at the Somnath Temple at about 10:15 am. He will then address a public function at around 11 am as part of the Somnath Swabhiman Parv.
Prime Minister Modi’s participation in the four-day event highlights the Centre’s emphasis on preserving and celebrating India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, while reaffirming the enduring strength of a civilisation that has withstood the tests of history.
