Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced his plan to visit the Somnath Temple to conduct the ‘Swabhiman Parv Vishesh Mahapuja’. This decision follows his virtual participation in a special worship at the shrine on his 65th birthday. Patel expressed his gratitude for virtually seeking blessings from Somnath Mahadev, the first of the 12 Jyotirlingas, and registering for the special Mahapuja organized under the ‘Somnath Swabhiman Parv’, initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The ongoing ‘Somnath Swabhiman Parv’ holds historical significance for the temple, commemorating 1,000 years since the 1026 attack on Somnath and 75 years since the temple’s reconstruction in 1951. Prime Minister Modi launched the ‘Millennial Host’ campaign as part of the commemorative program, introducing the Vishesh Mahapuja. PM Modi emphasized the importance of Somnath, urging Indians to visit and witness the temple’s grandeur, symbolizing India’s enduring spirit and cultural identity.
The day-long Vishesh Mahapuja organized by the Shri Somnath Trust includes various religious rituals from morning till evening. The program commences with the sankalp at 8 a.m., followed by Dhwaja Puja, Dhwaja Parikrama, and traditional music. Rituals such as special abhishek of Somnath Mahadev with milk, grains, and Ganga Jal, along with offerings like ceremonial garments, Rudraksh mala, and 1,008 Bilva leaves to Mahadev are part of the proceedings. Additionally, Nandi and Gau Pujan, chanting of Mahamrityunjay mantras, Brahmin Bhojan, and aarti mark the day’s events.
