Disclaimer: The above image is an AI-generated illustration for representative purposes only. It is not a factual photograph or an exact record of the event.
SOMNATH, GUJARAT – Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the landmark Swabhiman Parv ceremony at the historic Somnath Temple this weekend, marking the thousand‑year anniversary of Mahmud of Ghazni’s raid in 1026 AD. The event, organized by the Ministry of Culture and the Gujarat state government, combined cultural performances, spiritual rituals, and a symbolic lighting of the temple’s sacred fire.
Historical backdrop and significance
The Somnath Temple, the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas, has endured multiple invasions, the most renowned being the 1025–1026 AD attack by Mahmud of Ghazni. While the original structure was destroyed, successive generations rebuilt the shrine, turning it into a global symbol of resilience. The Swabhiman Parv (Pride Festival) was conceived to celebrate that endurance and to reinforce India’s cultural continuity, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of the temple’s 1951 rededication.
Key moments from the ceremony
Arriving in Somnath on the evening of Saturday, January 10, Prime Minister Modi delivered a keynote address emphasizing India’s progress and the importance of safeguarding national identity. On Saturday night, he joined the 72 hour Akhand Omkar chanting and witnessed a grand drone show featuring 3,000 drones. On Sunday, January 11, the Prime Minister led the Shaurya Yatra (Valor Procession), a ceremonial march featuring 108 horses to honor the temple’s historical defenders. He also highlighted recent restoration projects, including the installation of a new marble sanctum and the development of a digital archive visitor centre.
State officials, religious leaders, and members of the Indian diaspora participated in a joint prayer. The ceremony concluded with the lighting of a ceremonial torch that will travel to major Indian cities, reinforcing the theme of unity.
Public and diplomatic reactions
Domestic media praised the event as a timely reminder of India’s cultural endurance. International observers noted the diplomatic nuance, as the gathering coincided with India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with neighboring countries while reaffirming its own historical narrative.
- Government officials described the event as a “nation‑building exercise.”
- Heritage experts commended the emphasis on archaeological research linked to the site.
- Local business owners reported a surge in tourist bookings ahead of the upcoming festival season.
Critics, however, cautioned against politicizing historical trauma, urging a balanced approach that fosters reconciliation alongside remembrance.
Core Highlights
- PM Modi visited Somnath on January 10–11 to mark 1,000 years since Mahmud of Ghazni’s attack.
- Thets mentioned in the PM’s speech?**event included a Shaurya Yatra, a 3,000-drone show, and a 72-hour chanting ritual.
- Speeches focused on heritage preservation, youth involvement, and India’s global standing.
- Reactions ranged from praise for heritage promotion to calls for measured historical discourse.
