Amit Shah Emphasizes the Significance of Somnath Temple Amidst Historical Attacks

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has underscored the importance of the Somnath Temple, viewing its historical attacks as assaults on national dignity and faith. He announced a year-long celebration of the Somnath Self-Respect Festival, emphasizing the temple's resilience despite numerous destructions. The Gujarat government has extended the festival until January 15, with significant events planned in the presence of Prime Minister Modi. This initiative aims to honor the unwavering devotion of the people towards Lord Shiva, with over one lakh participants expected to join the celebrations. Discover more about the festival's significance and the government's plans in the full article.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 13, 2026, 14:33 IST

Significance of Somnath Temple Highlighted by Amit Shah

On Tuesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah remarked that the attacks on the Somnath Temple are seen as assaults on the nation's self-respect and religious faith. He emphasized that despite facing destruction multiple times, the temple continues to convey a powerful message that harming Sanatan Dharma is not an easy task. Shah announced that the entire year will be celebrated as the Somnath Self-Respect Festival.

While inaugurating various development projects in the Mansa municipality, Shah stated that the historical attacks on the Somnath Temple have always been viewed as strikes against the nation's dignity and religious beliefs, yet these attempts have failed to weaken Sanatan Dharma.

Celebration of Somnath Self-Respect Festival

Shah expressed that the Somnath Self-Respect Festival holds great significance for the community. The attacks on Somnath have been perceived as assaults on dignity and faith, which have been defended. Despite being destroyed 16 times, the magnificent Somnath Temple stands resilient. He further noted that the temple's unwavering presence sends a strong message to the world.

The Home Minister conveyed that it serves as a reminder that undermining the faith of Sanatan Dharma and the people of India is not a simple task. He reiterated that the Somnath Self-Respect Festival will be celebrated throughout the year.

Extension of the Festival by Gujarat Government

In response to public sentiments and demands, the Gujarat government has decided to extend the Somnath Self-Respect Festival until January 15. A grand celebration of the festival is scheduled to take place from January 8 to 11 in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During his address on Sunday, the Prime Minister highlighted the need for more people to benefit from the festival, given the unwavering faith and devotion of the people towards Lord Bholenath.

Historical Participation in the Festival

According to a statement, Agriculture Minister Jitubhai Vaghani provided detailed information regarding the festival, which is being celebrated historically in the presence of the Prime Minister. Over one lakh participants took part in the 'Shaurya Yatra' organized under the Prime Minister's inspiring presence, immersing themselves in devotion to Lord Shiva.