New Delhi, 09 January (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid profound tribute Friday to the sacred Somnath Dham, invoking its timeless legacy as a catalyst for awakening India's collective consciousness through faith, courage, and self-respect, while sharing a poignant Sanskrit subhashitam on X to underscore its enduring divine energy.

PM Modi emphasized that Somnath's majestic heritage has, for centuries, stirred the spirit of generations, with its radiant spiritual force illuminating pathways of devotion and resilience across epochs.

He quoted the evocative verse: “Ādināthena śarveṇa sarvaprāṇihitāya vai। Ādyatattvānyathānīyaṁ kṣetrametanmahāprabham। Prabhāsitaṁ mahādevi yatra siddhyanti mānavāḥ॥” – extolling the temple's primordial sanctity established by Lord Shiva for universal welfare, where human aspirations attain fulfillment in Prabhas Kshetra.

Symbol of Resilience Amid Historic Trials

This homage merges seamlessly with Modi's longstanding personal connection to Somnath, where he has presided over transformative redevelopment projects elevating it as a global pilgrimage hub.

Rebuilt in 1951 under Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision after 17 invasions—from Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026 to Aurangzeb—using Chalukya-style sandstone architecture, Somnath embodies Hindu resurgence as the first of 12 Jyotirlingas, drawing millions annually to Gujarat's pristine coast.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar