Somnath (Gujarat), Jan 11 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked on Sunday that hoisting the flag at the iconic Somnath Temple represents India's strength and potential, proudly displaying this to the globe.

He pointed out that the Somnath Swabhiman Parv is not merely a remembrance of the devastation from a millennium ago, but a celebration of a 1,000-year evolution. It stands as a festival honoring India's existence and pride.

PM Modi asserted that despite any efforts to undermine India or Somnath, both will remain resilient, exemplifying India's perseverance for all to notice.

Speaking to a large crowd in Sadbhavna Maidan after paying homage at the sacred site, PM Modi expressed, "This year's event is remarkable. With the God of Gods Mahadev on one side and the mighty waves of the sea, the sun's rays, the echo of prayers, the surge of devotion, and the presence of Lord Somnath's followers create a divine atmosphere for this grand celebration."

He mentioned his honor in serving as the President of the Somnath Mandir Trust and actively participating in this momentous occasion.

As he arrived at the stage to address the spirited audience, PM Modi was welcomed with chants of "Modi-Modi".

"Here, we had 72 hours of uninterrupted chanting of 'Omkar'. Just yesterday, a display of 1,000 drones, 1,000 students from Vedic schools, a representation of 1,000 years of the Somnath Temple, and today, a 'Shaurya Yatra' to the temple with 108 horses, along with a breathtaking presentation of devotional songs – all of this is enchanting," he noted, adding that this experience is beyond words, and "only time can truly encapsulate it."

"This celebration embodies pride, dignity, and glory infused with grace. It carries a legacy of magnificence and profound spirituality. There is emotion, happiness, connection, and above all, the blessings of Mahadev, the supreme deity," he commented.

The Prime Minister reflected that a thousand years ago, foreign conquerors believed they had defeated India, but even after a millennium, "the flag flying high above the Somnath Mahadev Temple showcases India's strength and potential to the world."

"Every part of this Prabhas Patan speaks to bravery, valor, and heroism," he remarked.

"During this Somnath Swabhiman Parv, I first pay my respects to every courageous man and woman who devoted their lives to safeguarding Somnath and reconstructing the temple. They sacrificed everything for Mahadev, the Lord of all gods," he noted.

PM Modi elaborated that Prabhas Patan is not only the sacred land of Lord Shiva but is also associated with Lord Krishna. He recalled that during the epic Mahabharata era, the Pandavas meditated at this holy site. Thus, he stated that this occasion is also a chance to honor the vast dimensions of India's heritage.

He emphasized that the journey of the Somnath Temple signifies 1,000 years of resilience and self-respect, and also commemorates 75 years since its reconstruction in 1951.

"This festival is not solely to recall the destruction that occurred a millennium ago. It celebrates a 1,000-year journey and serves as a festival of India's existence and pride," he concluded.

He stated that at every milestone and achievement, there exists a remarkable parallel between India's journey and that of Somnath. "The relentless attempts to obliterate Somnath mirror the continuous efforts by foreign invaders to undermine our nation. Yet, neither Somnath nor India was destroyed," he affirmed.

Earlier, the Prime Minister offered prayers at the Somnath Temple. Amidst Vedic chants, PM Modi performed 'Abhishek' and 'Aarti' at the historic temple, seeking the blessings of Lord Somnath.