Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday unveiled a powerful message during the launch of the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, emphasizing that the event celebrates a millennium of resilience rather than mere remembrance of historical devastation. Speaking at the iconic Somnath Temple in Gujarat, PM Modi highlighted the temple’s enduring spirit as a symbol of India’s unyielding cultural heritage.
The Swabhiman Parv, or Pride Festival, commemorates over a thousand years of the temple’s sacred history, from its ancient glory to repeated invasions and ultimate reconstruction. ‘This is not a festival of sorrow or defeat,’ PM Modi asserted. ‘It is a celebration of our ancestors’ unbreakable resolve and the nation’s timeless journey towards self-respect.’
PM Modi recounted how Somnath Temple stood as a beacon of Sanatana Dharma for centuries before facing plunder by invaders, including the infamous Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026 AD. Yet, he stressed, the flame of faith never extinguished. Post-independence, under Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s vision, the temple was rebuilt in 1951, marking a new era of national pride.
The Prime Minister linked the festival to India’s contemporary resurgence. ‘Just as Somnath rose from ashes, today Bharat is reclaiming its global stature,’ he said, drawing parallels to modern infrastructure marvels and cultural revivals. The event featured cultural performances, exhibitions on the temple’s history, and announcements for further development in Prabhas Patan.
Thousands gathered to witness the spectacle, with PM Modi performing special rituals and releasing commemorative coins and stamps. The festival underscores the government’s commitment to preserving heritage sites while fostering tourism and spiritual tourism. As the sun set over the Arabian Sea, the message resonated: Somnath’s story is one of triumph, inspiring generations to embrace their legacy with pride.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts like the PRASAD scheme, aimed at enhancing pilgrim facilities across 40 sites. PM Modi’s address not only honored the past but ignited a vision for a confident, self-reliant India rooted in its civilizational ethos.