Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Somnath temple in Gujarat on Sunday, where he participated in the 'Shaurya Yatra' and paid tribute to the brave souls who sacrificed everything for the temple's protection. On this significant occasion, he delivered a powerful message, stating, 'Civilizations that seek to grow by erasing others, erase themselves. ' This statement underscores India's cultural heritage and its resilience, particularly at a site of such historical importance as Somnath.
Upon his arrival in Somnath, Prime Minister Modi first offered prayers at the Somnath temple with traditional rituals, while he also took part in the 'Shaurya Yatra' organized within the temple complex, a tribute to the countless martyrs who laid down their lives over centuries to protect this sacred site. The Prime Minister expressed that he considers it a 'great privilege' to have had the opportunity to actively serve in the 'Somnath Swabhiman Parv' as the Chairman of the Somnath Temple Trust. He addressed millions of devotees connected from every corner of the country with 'Jai Somnath,' highlighting the widespread participation and significance of the event.
The Grandeur of Somnath Swabhiman Parv
Prime Minister Modi described the 'Somnath Swabhiman Parv' as an extraordinary and divine atmosphere. He remarked that the time, the environment, and the celebration itself were all remarkable. The presence of Lord Mahadev on one side, the gentle lapping of ocean waves, the sun's rays, the reverberating chants, and the surge of devotion all combined to make the occasion grand and divine, while this festival wasn't merely a religious event but became a symbol of India's cultural consciousness and pride, showcasing a unique confluence of nature and spirituality.
Tribute to Sacrifices and Historical Context
In his address, the Prime Minister recalled the era approximately 1000 years ago when the Somnath temple faced numerous invasions, while he emphasized that during those times, our ancestors risked their lives and sacrificed everything. He also criticized the mindset of those aggressors who believed they had conquered India. The Prime Minister asserted that even today, a thousand years later, the flag flying over the Somnath Mahadev temple calls out to the entire world, proclaiming India's power and capability, while this was a heartfelt tribute to all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their faith and beliefs.
Spectacular Drone Show and Shaurya Yatra
Several cultural and technological displays were part of this grand event. Prime Minister Modi lauded the continuous 72-hour chanting of 'Omkar' and mantras. He specifically mentioned the spectacular drone show held the previous night, where 1,000 drones, in the presence of 1,000 students from Vedic Gurukuls, depicted the 1,000-year history of Somnath, while this visual spectacle was mesmerizing. Also, the 'Shaurya Yatra' with 108 horses leading to the temple, accompanied by an amazing presentation of mantras and bhajans, made the entire event an unforgettable experience. The Prime Minister stated that this profound experience can't be expressed in words; only time can encapsulate it.
A Message of India's Indomitable Strength
Prime Minister Modi's visit and his message reflect a strong commitment to India's cultural identity, its history, and its future. The Somnath temple, which has been demolished multiple times yet has risen each time with greater splendor, symbolizes India's indomitable spirit and resilience, while the Prime Minister's statement that 'civilizations that seek to grow by erasing others, erase themselves' serves as a clear warning to all forces that challenge India's diversity and tolerance. The flag of Somnath today stands as a testament to India's eternal strength and its glorious past, demonstrating how deep and strong the roots of faith and self-respect truly are.
