Prime Minister Narendra Modi took part in the ‘Somnath Amrut Mahotsav’ in Gir Somnath district, Gujarat, to mark 75 years since the reconstructed Somnath Temple’s inauguration. The event honored the restoration of the historic temple, inaugurated by India’s first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, in 1951. PM Modi also held a roadshow in Somnath after arriving from Jamnagar, accompanied by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi.
Thousands of people lined the route from the helipad to Veer Hamirji Circle near the temple to welcome PM Modi. Supporters cheered and waved flags as the convoy passed by, with artists from various states performing traditional dances along the way. The Prime Minister participated in special rituals and prayers at the temple complex as part of the celebrations, including a Kumbhabhishek ceremony using holy water from 11 sacred pilgrimage sites.
During the ceremonies, PM Modi performed rituals like jal abhishek, dhwaj puja, and maha puja at the temple, while ceremonial flag hoisting and traditional religious rites took place amidst Vedic chants. The temple was adorned with flower petals showered from helicopters, and devotees and dignitaries attended the event in large numbers. Security was heightened across the district for the Prime Minister’s visit and the expected public turnout.
The Somnath Temple, situated in Prabhas Patan on the Arabian Sea coast, holds immense religious significance in Hindu tradition as a symbol of faith and cultural heritage. The ongoing celebrations mark 75 years since the temple’s formal inauguration post-independence. PM Modi is also set to address a public gathering at Sadbhavana Ground in Somnath later in the day.
