New Delhi, Jan 8 (NationPress) The Somnath Swabhiman Parv kicked off on Thursday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighting that the event is dedicated to honoring the numerous individuals throughout the nation who have remained unwavering in their principles and resolve, even in the face of adversity.

This commemorative event marks 1,000 years since the initial significant incursion on the Somnath Temple in 1026, celebrating the indomitable spirit of this sacred site and the cultural resilience of India, given that the temple has undergone numerous restorations following various attacks by invaders over the centuries.

Modi initiated this observance as a representation of faith, destruction, and rebirth, emphasizing how the temple’s continuous restoration through generations culminated in its reconstruction during the 1950s, symbolizing national pride and the strength of India’s civilization.

In a post on X, PM Modi remarked, "Today marks the start of Somnath Swabhiman Parv. One thousand years ago, in January 1026, Somnath faced its inaugural attack. The assaults of 1026 and those that followed did not diminish the enduring faith of millions, nor did they disrupt the civilizational spirit that persistently rebuilt Somnath."

He also shared pictures from his past visits to Somnath and encouraged citizens to share their memories and experiences linked to this sacred site using the hashtag 'Somnath Swabhiman Parv'.

"This event is about honoring the countless children of Bharat Mata, who never wavered from their principles and ethos. Regardless of the challenges faced, their determination remained intact and their allegiance to our values steadfast," stated the Prime Minister.

Reflecting on a significant chapter in India’s independent history, Modi referenced the celebrations commemorating 50 years of the Somnath Temple’s restoration, which was initiated shortly after Independence by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Sharing memories of a ceremony held in Somnath on October 31, 2001, he recalled, "That year marked 50 years since the reconstructed Somnath Temple opened its doors in 1951, honored by the then-President Dr. Rajendra Prasad. The contributions of Sardar Patel, K.M. Munshi, and several others were remarkable. It also coincided with the 125th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel."

He further noted that the 2001 event was attended by prominent figures such as then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Home Minister L.K. Advani, and various other dignitaries.

"In 2026, we will celebrate 75 years since the grand ceremony of 1951!" added PM Modi.

Meanwhile, a series of year-long activities are set to take place at the Somnath Temple in Gujarat as part of the Somnath Swabhiman Parv.

A variety of spiritual and social events will be hosted at the temple from January 8 to January 11.

Prime Minister Modi is expected to visit the Somnath Temple on January 11 to partake in the Somnath Swabhiman Parv festivities.

The central theme is "Unbroken Faith", emphasizing the temple’s role as a symbol of India’s enduring culture and spirit despite facing repeated assaults.

Previously, PM Modi expressed in a blog post that the Somnath Temple serves as the eternal testament of the Indian spirit, asserting that while hatred and fanaticism can destroy temporarily, faith and belief in goodness possess the power to create eternally.

He reminisced about Sardar Patel’s visit to the site during Diwali in 1947, which profoundly impacted him and led to the decision to reconstruct the temple at its original location.

"On May 11, 1951, a magnificent Somnath Temple was inaugurated for devotees in the presence of Dr. Rajendra Prasad," he remarked.

PM Modi pointed out that Nehru opposed the government's official involvement in the temple's restoration.

"The great Sardar Sahib was not alive to witness this historic day, but the realization of his dream stood proudly before the nation. The then Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, was not very supportive of this development. He believed that this event would cast a negative light on India. Nonetheless, Dr. Rajendra Prasad remained resolute, and the rest is history," PM Modi noted in his blog.

Despite Nehru's reservations, Sardar Patel, K.M. Munshi (who spearheaded the construction efforts), and President Rajendra Prasad were ardent advocates for the temple's restoration as a mark of national pride. The temple was ultimately restored using funds raised through public donations rather than government finances.

PM Modi emphasized that no discussion about Somnath is complete without mentioning K.M. Munshi, who was a staunch supporter of Sardar Patel.