Located on the shores of the Arabian Sea in Prabhas Patan, Gujarat, the history of the first Jyotirlinga, Somnath, is an incredible saga of struggle and victory. Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Gujarat to participate in the 'Somnath Amrut Mahotsav', marking the 75th anniversary of the temple's modern reconstruction.
Exactly 1,000 years ago, in January 1026, Mahmud Ghazni attacked Somnath. This invasion was not merely for wealth but an attempt to shatter India’s cultural consciousness. He desecrated the Jyotirlinga and razed the temple to the ground. However, Ghazni failed to realize that while structures can be destroyed, faith is indestructible.
History bears witness that from Ghazni to Alauddin Khalji and Aurangzeb, this temple was attacked 17 times. Yet, after every wave of destruction, great leaders rose to rebuild it:
Sovereigns like Raja Bhimdev, Raja Bhoj, and Kumarpal carried out restorations periodically.
Rani Ahilyabai Holkar constructed a new temple to ensure the continuity of worship and the temple's grandeur.
Following Independence, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, moved by the sight of the ruins, took a solemn vow: "The soul of India will not rest until the magnificent temple of Somnath stands tall again."
May 11, 1951: The first President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, performed the Prana-Pratishtha (consecration) of the Jyotirlinga in the newly built temple. He famously remarked, "The Somnath temple proclaims that the power of creation is always greater than the power of destruction."
Today in 2026, as we mark 75 years of that historic day, Somnath stands in a new, glorious avatar:
Amrut Mahotsav: During this festival (May 8–11), 51 scholars are performing the 'Atirudra Path'.
Grand Ceremony: Tomorrow (May 11), a 'Kumbhabhishek' will be performed at the temple’s pinnacle using holy water from 11 sacred pilgrimage sites. The Prime Minister will also release a special commemorative coin and postage stamp.
1000 Days of Worship: To mark the millennium of Ghazni’s invasion, a resolution for a special "Vijay Puja" (Victory Prayer) has been made for the next 1,000 days.
Kailash Mahameru Prasad Style: The current temple is renowned for its intricate carvings and its ability to stand firm against the salty sea winds.
Baan Stambh (Arrow Pillar): The pillar in the courtyard indicates a straight, unobstructed sea route from this point to the South Pole—a testament to our ancestors' profound geographical knowledge.
If you are in Somnath today, do not miss the 'Light and Sound Show' at night. Narrated by Amitabh Bachchan, it vividly brings the entire history of the temple to life.