Vadodara, Jan 5 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday celebrated the Somnath temple as a timeless emblem of India’s civilizational tenacity and indomitable spirit while marking the first assault on the shrine nearly 1,000 years ago.

The Prime Minister's reflection on the Somnath temple’s heritage elicited responses from members of the saint community, who contemplated the shrine's importance and praised the steadfast faith and resilience of followers of Sanatan Dharma.

Dr. Jyotir Nath, the President of the Sanatan Sant Committee, noted that the construction of the Somnath temple is mentioned in the Vedas and referred to it as the first Jyotirlinga.

“The inception of the temple is documented in the Vedas. This was the inaugural Jyotirlinga temple at Somnath. The temple was rebuilt after its devastation in 1026. As we approach 2026, it is a source of joy and a significant moment for every Sanatani,” Dr. Nath remarked.

He emphasized the relevance of the term ‘Somnath’, stating, “Som signifies spreading peace and prosperity to all beings. The temple embodies this energy. We often say ‘Sarve Santu Sukhinah Bhavantu’, and we must nurture a sense of well-being for everyone.”

“We hope for global advancement and strive for the welfare of humanity, especially given the current global climate marred by conflict,” he added.

Vijayanand Puri Maharaj of the Haridwar Kashi Peeth in Surat asserted that the Somnath temple occupies a pivotal role among the Jyotirlingas and noted that faith has flourished under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guidance.

“Somnath holds the top position among the 12 Jyotirlingas. Over the years, the devotion and reverence associated with the temple have significantly escalated. Words can't adequately convey the respect, but the number of devotees believing in Lord Shiva continues to surge,” he remarked to IANS.

He further stated that since PM Modi took office in 2014, there has been a revitalization of Hindutva, not just in India but globally.

Stating that India has emerged as a global leader, he added that Hinduism has weathered historical adversities for centuries.

“No one has been able to obliterate the Hindu faith, and no one ever will. Somnath faced an attack from Mahmud Ghazni. There were adversaries 1,000 years ago, and challenges persist today. Despite the attempts of invaders, Sanatan Dharma has endured and will persist. Today, Hindutva is flourishing, and our nation stands as a 'Vishwaguru',” he stated.

Characterizing the Somnath temple as a symbol of unwavering faith, Vijayanand Puri Maharaj mentioned that Lord Dwarkadish also visited Somnath and chose to reside there.

“Hence, I assert that there is no nation like India, no state like Gujarat, and no city like Surat. Here we proclaim Hari Har, as Lord Somnath and Lord Dwarkadish coexist,” he concluded.