Modi Emphasizes Unity and Strength at Somnath Temple Commemoration
Prime Minister Modi's Address at Somnath Swabhiman Parv
Somnath (Gujarat), Jan 11: On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by those who opposed the reconstruction of the Somnath temple in Gujarat post-independence, urging the nation to stay vigilant, united, and strong against such forces.
Modi delivered his remarks during the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, commemorating the 1,000th anniversary of Mahmud of Ghazni's invasion of the temple in 1026.
He recalled how Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel faced significant resistance when he pledged to rebuild the temple after independence.
"Those who engage in appeasement bowed to individuals with extremist views, and such forces still exist among us, attempting to hinder the temple's reconstruction. We must remain alert, united, and powerful to overcome these challenges," Modi stated.
He emphasized that the history of Somnath is one of resilience and renewal, asserting that while fundamentalist invaders have faded into history, the temple continues to stand proudly.
Modi remarked, "The true narrative of hatred, violence, and terror has been obscured, and we were misled to believe that the attack was merely an act of looting the temple."
"The story of Somnath reflects India's journey; foreign invaders have attempted to destroy our heritage repeatedly, including this temple. They believed they triumphed by demolishing it, yet after a millennium, the flag of Somnath still waves high," he added.
Later, Modi took part in the Somnath Shaurya Yatra, a key event of the Swabhiman Parv celebrations.
The procession featured traditional music from damru players and a remarkable display of 108 horses from various regions of Gujarat. The Prime Minister rode in an open-top vehicle during the event.
The yatra commenced at Shankh Circle and proceeded nearly a kilometer to Veer Hamirji Gohil Circle, adjacent to the temple complex. At the beginning of the procession, Modi played a drum briefly before passing it to security personnel.
Spectators lined the route, cheering and showering flower petals as the procession advanced. Performers showcased various classical and folk dance forms of India on stages set up along the way.
The contingent of 108 horses garnered special attention, with riders from the Gujarat Police dressed in crisp white shirts, khaki trousers, and saffron headgear.
“These horses and riders represent different districts of Gujarat. We are part of the Gujarat Police and have rehearsed for the past ten days. I am a constable from Patan district and take pride in participating in this Shaurya Yatra,” shared Bharat Kumar Jatabhai, patting his 17-year-old horse, Garud, a Kathiawari–Marwari mix. He noted that around ten horses in the procession hailed from Patan district.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Somnath on Saturday evening for a two-day visit. The Swabhiman Parv, running from January 8 to 11, marks the 1,000-year anniversary of Mahmud of Ghazni's invasion of the Somnath temple, as stated by the Prime Minister’s Office.