Gujarat Education Minister Pradyuman Vaja, during a state Assembly session, highlighted historical letters from former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru opposing the reconstruction and consecration of the Somnath Temple. Nehru, in a letter to President Rajendra Prasad in 1951, discouraged attending the temple’s consecration, labeling it as “Hindu revivalism.” Another letter to Kanhaiyalal Munshi criticized the construction as “improper expenditure” and ill-timed.
Minister Vaja emphasized the cultural significance of the Somnath Temple, stating it symbolizes India’s faith and Gujarat’s identity. He mentioned the recent ‘Somnath Swabhiman Parv’ event, marking 1,000 years since the temple’s invasion in 1026. The program, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, featured continuous chanting, devotional songs, and cultural activities, drawing numerous devotees.
Acknowledging Vallabhbhai Patel’s role in the temple’s post-Independence reconstruction, Minister Vaja praised the transformation of the pilgrimage site under PM Modi’s vision. He highlighted modern facilities like a railway station, transport hub, sea-view pathway, and digital museum for pilgrims. The Minister also mentioned initiatives such as the ‘Somnath–Sasan–Diu’ tourist circuit and the spiritual and educational contributions of Somnath Sanskrit University.
