PM Modi Explains Why Somnath Symbolises India’s “Unconquerable Spirit”

Ahead of his scheduled visit to the Somnath Temple on May 11, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has penned a detailed op-ed reflecting on the temple’s historical, spiritual and civilisational importance, while announcing special pujas for the next 1,000 days in honour of those who protected and rebuilt the shrine across centuries.

The Prime Minister described Somnath’s history as a journey “from ruin to renewal” and “from Vidhvans to Srijan,” portraying the temple as a symbol of India’s enduring cultural continuity despite repeated invasions and destruction.

In a post on X, Modi wrote, “Wrote an OpEd about my forthcoming visit to Somnath on 11th May and why this day will always be important with respect to Somnath and the greatness of our civilisation. Also paid homage to each and every person who endured all sorts of challenges yet always protected Somnath and restored its glory.”

Why May 11 Holds Significance

According to the Prime Minister, the visit marks 75 years since the inauguration of the restored Somnath Temple by India’s first President, Rajendra Prasad.

Modi also referred to the Somnath Swabhiman Parv held earlier this year, commemorating 1,000 years since the first recorded attack on the temple.

“Somnath gives us a civilisational message,” Modi wrote, emphasising that the temple has remained alive in India’s collective consciousness despite centuries of upheaval.

Somnath’s Historical Journey

Located in Somnath Temple, the temple is regarded as one of Hinduism’s most sacred pilgrimage centres and is traditionally counted among the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Over centuries, Somnath witnessed repeated destruction and reconstruction, becoming a recurring symbol in discussions around cultural resilience and identity.

In the op-ed, Modi invoked several historical figures linked to the temple’s protection and revival.

“Empires rose and fell, tides changed, history moved through conquest and upheaval, yet Somnath continued to endure in our consciousness. It is time to remember the countless greats who stood firm in the face of tyranny. There were Lakulisha and Soma Sarman, who transformed Prabhasa into a great centre of philosophy. Chakravarti Maharaja Dharasena IV of Vallabhi built the Second Temple there centuries ago. Bhima Deva, Jayapala and Anandapala will always be remembered for defending civilisational honour against invasions...” he stated.

Sardar Patel’s Role in Rebuilding Somnath

A major portion of the Prime Minister’s article focused on Vallabhbhai Patel and his efforts to rebuild the temple after Independence.

Modi recalled Patel’s visit to Somnath in November 1947, when the temple was still in ruins.

“In the 1940s, when the spirit of freedom swept across India and the foundations of a new republic were being laid under the leadership of towering figures like Sardar Patel, one thing continued to trouble him deeply...the condition of Somnath. On 13th November 1947, he stood next to the dilapidated ruins of the temple with sea-water in his hands and said, ‘On this auspicious day of the (Gujarati) New Year, we have decided that Somnath should be reconstructed. You, people of Saurashtra, should do your best. This is a holy task in which all should participate,’” Modi wrote.

The Prime Minister noted that Patel did not live to see the completed restoration of the temple.

“Unfortunately, fate did not allow Sardar Patel to witness the fulfilment of the dream he had so passionately championed. Before the restored Somnath Temple could open its doors to devotees, he had departed from this world... His vision was championed by Shri KM Munshi, ably supported by the Jamsaheb of Nawanagar...” he added.

“Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”: Linking Heritage With Development

The Prime Minister used the Somnath narrative to highlight his government’s broader approach towards spiritual and heritage sites under the slogan “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi.”

“Inspired by the principle of 'Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi', from Somnath to Kashi, Kamakhya to Kedarnath, Ayodhya to Ujjain, Trimbakeshwar to Srisailam, our team has had the opportunity to equip our spiritual centres with the latest facilities while at the same time preserving their traditional character,” he wrote.

The statement places Somnath within a larger national effort to modernise pilgrimage infrastructure while preserving religious and cultural heritage.

Why Special Pujas Will Be Held for 1,000 Days

Modi announced that special pujas would be conducted at Somnath for the next 1,000 days to honour those who defended and rebuilt the temple over centuries.

“The struggles and sacrifices of those who laid down their lives to protect Somnath and those who rebuilt it time and again will never be forgotten... As a tribute to this, remembering the extraordinary courage of a thousand years, there will be special Pujas at Somnath for the next thousand days. It is gladdening to see several people donating for these Pujas as well,” he said.

PM Modi’s Appeal to Indians

Concluding the op-ed, the Prime Minister urged citizens to visit Somnath during what he described as a historically significant period.

“I urge my fellow Indians to travel to Somnath in this special time... You will experience Bharat's unconquerable spirit and understand why, despite every effort, our culture remained undefeated, and you will have the opportunity to behold the vision of eternal triumph. It will surely be unforgettable,” Modi said.

The Prime Minister described the temple as a reflection of “Bharat’s unconquerable spirit.”

(With inputs from ANI)