The Somnath Swabhiman Parv began at the Somnath Mahadev Temple, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the shrine’s inauguration. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend the celebrations on January 11. A key feature of the event is the Shaurya Yatra, where 108 horsemen from the Gujarat Police Cavalry will participate in traditional attire.
The horses represent power, while Somnath embodies self-respect, reflecting a legacy of sacrifice and bravery. Riders from 15 districts of the Gujarat Police Cavalry have gathered in Somnath for this grand procession. Under the supervision of DIG Shri Rajendrasinh Chudasama, the horsemen have been practicing for the event, filling the air with chants of ‘Jai Somnath – Har Har Mahadev’.
The festival commenced with a 72-hour-long ‘Akhand Omkar Jap’ at the temple, marked by the sounds of conch shells and traditional ‘damrus’. Celebrating the enduring spirit of the Somnath temple, the event signifies the upcoming 1,000 years since the first attack on Somnath in January 1026 AD. The temple symbolizes India’s self-respect, resilience, and reconstruction, standing as a testament to the nation’s unyielding pride.
The Somnath Swabhiman Parv aims to revive this historical narrative for the current generation, emphasizing India’s cultural confidence, spiritual heritage, and national pride. Over four days, the event will propagate Somnath’s message of self-respect and pride throughout the country.
