Somnath (Gujarat), Jan 11 (NationPress) - On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who played a pivotal role in restoring the Somnath Temple post-Independence. He also honored the countless heroes who sacrificed their lives in defense of the temple.

The 'Somnath Swabhiman Parv' stands as a tribute to the temple’s lasting legacy, representing India's cultural bravery, spiritual fortitude, and its recurring reconstruction amid centuries of invasions. This event underscores the sacrifices made by innumerable devotees who fought valiantly for the shrine's revival. The year 2026 will mark a millennium since the temple was first attacked by invaders in January 1026.

This year also commemorates 75 years since the temple's modern reconstruction, which was inaugurated in 1951 by the then President Dr. Rajendra Prasad, following the initiatives led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel after Independence.

Previously, the Prime Minister noted in a blog that the sacred task of rebuilding the Somnath Temple, which fell to invaders in 1026, was entrusted to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

He reflected on the period when then-Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru was not in favor of the temple's reconstruction and was reluctant to have top constitutional figures involved.

PM Modi mentioned that Sardar Patel's visit to the site during Diwali in 1947 profoundly affected him, leading to the decision to reconstruct the temple at the original site.

"On May 11, 1951, a magnificent Somnath Temple was unveiled to devotees in the presence of Dr. Rajendra Prasad," he stated.

Despite Nehru's objections, Sardar Patel, K.M. Munshi (who spearheaded the construction), and President Rajendra Prasad were fervent supporters of the temple's restoration as a symbol of national pride. The temple's restoration was financed through public donations rather than government funds.

PM Modi participated in the 'Shaurya Yatra' at Somnath Temple as part of the Somnath Swabhiman Parv in Gujarat on Sunday, enjoying cultural performances from artists nationwide.

The 'Shaurya Yatra' is a ceremonial procession honoring the numerous warriors who defended the Somnath Temple.

As the sounds of the 'Damru', an instrument linked to Lord Shiva, resonated, PM Modi was welcomed by large crowds lining the roads, eager to see him.

People showered him with flowers and chanted "Modi-Modi" in excitement.

During the event, he held 'Damrus' in both hands, played it, raised his arms, and flicked his wrist.

Artists from Rajasthan, Punjab, Manipur, Gujarat, and other regions performed as the Prime Minister continued along the yatra, greeting everyone he encountered.

Artists involved in the 'Shaurya Yatra' shared their excitement for Prime Minister Modi's visit and expressed their enthusiasm to meet him.

The Prime Minister later offered his prayers at the Somnath Temple.

A significant public event is scheduled at Sadbhavna Maidan, where the Prime Minister will address the audience.

In the afternoon, he will head to Rajkot, where he will inaugurate a trade show and exhibition as part of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference at Marwari University.

He is also set to launch the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference for Kutch and Saurashtra.

Later, PM Modi will arrive at Mahatma Mandir Metro Station in Gandhinagar, where he will launch the Phase 2 route of the Ahmedabad Metro Rail Project from Sector 10A to Mahatma Mandir.