PM Modi Says Bharat’s Sacred Spirit Rooted In Unity And Oneness

NEW DELHI, May 8: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday described the Somnath Temple as a timeless symbol of India’s spiritual resilience and national unity, saying the sacred shrine reflects the enduring civilisational consciousness that has survived centuries of invasions and upheavals.
In a signed article commemorating 75 years since the restored Somnath Temple was reopened to devotees, Modi said the temple continues to inspire generations with its message of courage, faith and cultural continuity.
The Prime Minister stated that people from every corner of the country contributed to rebuilding the temple, proving that Bharat has always remained united through a deep sense of shared identity beyond geographical boundaries.
He noted that the spirit of unity represented by Somnath remains highly relevant in today’s world, where societies are often divided by conflicts and differences. According to him, the temple stands as a powerful reminder that India’s cultural roots and collective consciousness cannot be erased.
Modi announced that special pujas will be organised at Somnath for the next thousand days to honour the sacrifices made over centuries to protect the shrine and preserve the nation’s heritage. He also appreciated the growing participation of devotees contributing towards these religious ceremonies.
Inviting citizens to visit the temple during this commemorative period, the Prime Minister said the shores of Somnath offer an unforgettable experience of devotion and historical pride. He remarked that visitors would witness the unbroken spirit of Indian civilisation and understand how the country’s traditions survived repeated attempts at destruction.
Reflecting on the temple’s historical importance, Modi said Somnath has long symbolised the victory of faith over adversity. He added that the sea waves surrounding the temple serve as a reminder that no force can permanently suppress the spirit of the people.
The Prime Minister referred to ancient Indian scriptures which describe a pilgrimage around Somnath as equivalent to circling the entire earth. He said the shrine has remained alive in the nation’s consciousness despite changing empires and repeated invasions.
Modi paid tribute to several rulers, saints and scholars associated with the temple’s preservation and reconstruction across different periods of history. He mentioned personalities including Lakulisha, Soma Sarman, Raja Bhoja, Kumarapala Solanki, Siddharaja Jayasimha and Ahilyabai Holkar for their contributions to sustaining the shrine’s spiritual and cultural traditions.
He also remembered brave warriors such as Veer Hamirji Gohil and Veer Vegdaji Bhil, whose sacrifices became part of Somnath’s enduring legacy.
Recalling the post-Independence period, Modi highlighted the role played by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in initiating the reconstruction of the temple after visiting its ruins in 1947. He said Patel considered the rebuilding of Somnath a sacred national mission and inspired people across the country to participate in the effort.
The Prime Minister noted that although Patel did not live to see the temple’s completion, his vision was carried forward by KM Munshi and the Jam Saheb of Nawanagar. He also mentioned that India’s first President, Dr Rajendra Prasad, attended the inauguration ceremony of the restored temple in 1951 despite opposition from then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
Modi recalled that Rajendra Prasad had described the temple as a symbol of faith and devotion that could never be destroyed. He added that Prasad had also stressed the importance of combining cultural revival with the prosperity and welfare of the people.
Highlighting the government’s heritage development initiatives, Modi said efforts under the vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” have focused on modernising pilgrimage centres while preserving their traditional identity.
He cited projects undertaken at major spiritual destinations including Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Kedarnath Temple, Ram Mandir Ayodhya, Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga and Kamakhya Temple.
According to the Prime Minister, improved infrastructure and connectivity at these centres are strengthening tourism, creating employment opportunities and reinforcing the vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”