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PM Modi recalled that there were attempts to stop Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel from rebuilding the Somnath Temple after Independence.
PM Narendra Modi in Somnath Temple
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday accused past regimes of making “despicable attempts” to erase the history of the Somnath Temple post Independence, saying a “slave mentality” was used to downplay its legacy despite its enduring spirit of resilience and reconstruction.
He visited the Shri Somnath Temple in Gujarat to take part in the Somnath Swabhiman Parv. The event marks 1,000 years since foreign attacks on the historic temple. Speaking at the sacred site, the Prime Minister described the occasion as deeply meaningful and symbolic of India’s enduring faith.
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi also said there were deliberate attempt in the past to erase the history of India’s heroes. He said people were taught that Somnath was destroyed only for loot, while the real history was hidden from generations.
Hitting out at the Congress, he added that a “slave mentality” led some people to ignore the importance of the Somnath Temple and its legacy. According to the Prime Minister, these efforts weakened awareness of India’s cultural and historical strength.
PM Modi recalled that there were attempts to stop Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel from rebuilding the Somnath Temple after Independence. He also said objections were raised when Dr Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, decided to visit the temple.
The Prime Minister said these actions reflected resistance to acknowledging the temple’s national and spiritual importance.
“The people who pursue appeasement politics bowed before this extremist mindset. When India broke free from the chains of slavery, and when Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel took a vow to rebuild Somnath, attempts were made to stop him as well. In 1951, objections were also raised to the then President of India, Dr Rajendra Prasad, coming here,” said PM Modi.
Reflecting on the past, PM Modi said he often wonders what the atmosphere at Somnath must have been like centuries ago. He said the ancestors of those present today risked their lives and made immense sacrifices to protect their faith and heritage.
He said the history of Somnath is not just about destruction, but about courage, sacrifice and determination.
PM Modi said the history of Somnath is marked by triumph and repeated reconstruction. He described it as a symbol of resilience, victory and renewal. According to him, the temple stands as proof that India’s spirit cannot be broken.
He said that even after 1,000 years, the flag continues to fly atop the Somnath Temple, reminding the world of India’s strength and spirit.
Calling the Somnath Swabhiman Parv a living reflection of India’s faith, PM Modi said becoming part of the festival was an unforgettable moment in his life. He said the event reflects the devotion and resolve of crores of Indians.
The Prime Minister also said India has never taught the world how to win by defeating others, portraying the country’s values of faith, strength and moral courage.
Gujarat, India, India
January 11, 2026, 12:55 IST
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