By ‘Eternal Faith Could Not Be Shaken’: PM Modi Launches Somnath Swabhiman Parv, Shares 2001 Throwback Photos
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, a year-long national observance dedicated to India’s civilisational resilience and the enduring spiritual legacy of the Somnath Temple in Gujarat. The Prime Minister shared rare throwback photographs from his 2001 visit to the temple and reflected on its repeated reconstruction despite centuries of attacks.
In a post on X, PM Modi said the Somnath Swabhiman Parv honours generations of Indians who upheld their principles and cultural ethos even in the most challenging times.
Jai Somnath!
Somnath Swabhiman Parv begins today. A thousand years ago, in January 1026, Somnath faced its first ever attack. The attack of 1026 and the subsequent attacks couldn’t diminish the eternal faith of millions, nor break the civilisational spirit that rebuilt Somnath… pic.twitter.com/pfWqup532l
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 8, 2026
“Jai Somnath! Somnath Swabhiman Parv begins today. A thousand years ago, in January 1026, Somnath faced its first-ever attack. The attack of 1026 and the subsequent attacks could not diminish the eternal faith of millions, nor could they break the civilisational spirit that rebuilt Somnath time and again,” the Prime Minister wrote.
Highlighting the significance of the celebrations, PM Modi said the Parv is a tribute to the countless children of Bharat Mata who never compromised with India’s values. He added that their resolve remained unshaken regardless of how daunting the circumstances were.
The Prime Minister also shared glimpses from a programme held at Somnath on October 31, 2001, when the 50th anniversary of the Somnath Temple’s inauguration was commemorated. The temple was reconstructed in 1951, following repeated destruction over centuries.
Recalling the historic reconstruction, PM Modi said the inauguration ceremony in 1951 was held in the presence of then President Dr. Rajendra Prasad, and credited leaders such as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and K. M. Munshi for their pivotal role in rebuilding the temple.
He noted that the 2001 event was attended by senior leaders including then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and then Home Minister L. K. Advani. The Prime Minister added that 2026 will mark the 75th anniversary of the temple’s historic inauguration ceremony.
Situated in Veraval, Gujarat, the Somnath Temple remains a powerful symbol of India’s spiritual heritage and cultural continuity. PM Modi is scheduled to visit the temple on January 11 to participate in the Somnath Swabhiman Parv celebrations.
The Somnath Swabhiman Parv, being observed from January 8 to January 11, will feature multiple programmes showcasing India’s spiritual traditions, cultural pride, and social values.
