'Symbol Of Our Civilisational Courage': PM Modi In Somnath | Somnath Swabhiman Parv

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the 'Somnath Swabhiman Parv' in Gujarat, an event marking 1,000 years since the first invasion of the Somnath Temple by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026. The multi-day program included a 72-hour 'Akhand Omkar Japa' and a drone show. This special report examines the historical significance of the temple, which is the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas, as a symbol of India's cultural heritage. The report details the temple's history of repeated destruction by invaders, including Mahmud of Ghazni and Aurangzeb, and its subsequent reconstructions. It highlights the roles of figures like Ahilyabai Holkar and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who initiated the modern reconstruction after India's independence. The broadcast also notes the context of Patel's efforts proceeding despite objections from then-Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. The event is framed as a tribute to India's resilience and civilizational continuity.