Chandigarh: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that the Somnath Temple in Gujarat is not merely a place of worship, but a living symbol of India’s spiritual resolve and cultural consciousness. He said the temple occupies a unique place in India’s sacred geography as the first among the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.

He said Indian society reflects a remarkable confluence of ancient civilisation and culture, and revered sites like Somnath strengthen the nation’s faith and cultural identity.

Somnath Swabhiman Parv to Mark 1,000 Years Since First Attack

Saini said the Government of India is observing the period from May 8 to May 11, 2026 as the “Somnath Swabhiman Parv” to commemorate 1,000 years since the first attack on the Somnath Temple and to celebrate its eternal and indestructible spirit.

He said despite repeated attacks throughout history, the Somnath Temple was rebuilt time and again, reflecting Indian society’s unshakeable faith and cultural resilience.

“The very purpose of celebrating this festival is to affirm that no matter how many upheavals come, Somnath was and will remain a symbol of our unwavering faith,” he said.

Sardar Patel’s Vision Behind Reconstruction Remembered

Recalling the role of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in the temple’s reconstruction after Independence, Saini said Patel had deeply felt the pain over the deteriorated condition of the temple.

He noted that on November 13, 1947, during Diwali celebrations, Sardar Patel stood before the ruins of Somnath and resolved to rebuild the temple with public participation.

Saini added that though Patel could not witness the completion of the temple restoration, his vision ultimately materialised when the consecration ceremony was held on May 11, 1951.

PM Modi Revitalising India’s Spiritual Heritage

The Haryana Chief Minister praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for strengthening India’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

He said Modi, who also serves as Chairman of the Shree Somnath Trust, has worked towards preserving the temple’s legacy for future generations.

“Under the guiding principle of ‘Development as well as Heritage’, spiritual centres from Somnath to Kashi, Kamakhya to Kedarnath, Ayodhya to Ujjain have been equipped with modern facilities while preserving their traditional identity,” Saini said.

Somnath Emerging as Spiritual and Cultural Hub

Saini said the Somnath Temple today stands as a grand confluence of architecture, spirituality and cultural heritage, attracting millions of devotees every year.

He said modern amenities are being expanded at the temple complex and cultural activities are being promoted, making Somnath not only a centre of faith but also a major tourism and cultural destination.

He further said that Modi’s leadership has inspired Indians across the world, especially the younger generation, to reconnect with their roots and rediscover the significance of their faith.

Concluding his remarks, Saini expressed confidence that visiting the Somnath Temple gives devotees the experience of an unconquered spirit that has preserved India’s identity and culture despite every challenge.