Agartala, May 11: Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Monday said the historic Somnath Temple remains an enduring symbol of India’s spiritual heritage, cultural resilience and civilisational pride despite repeated attacks by foreign invaders over the last 1,000 years.
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| Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha attends the Somnath Swabhiman Parva programme at Shivbari premises on Central Road in Agartala commemorating the legacy and cultural significance of the Somnath Temple. (Image: X/DrManikSaha2) |
Addressing the Somnath Swabhiman Parva programme held at the Shibbari premises on Central Road in Agartala, Dr. Saha said the temple continues to inspire generations through its legacy of faith, courage and struggle.
The programme was organised to mark 1,000 years since the invasion of the Somnath Temple by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026, as well as the 75th anniversary of the temple’s modern revival after Independence.
Describing Somnath as one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas, the Chief Minister called it “an eternal symbol of Sanatan faith” and a proud representation of India’s invincible civilisation.
“Despite repeated destructive attacks by foreign invaders since 1,000 years ago, the Somnath Temple still stands proudly as the centre of our self-respect, courage, struggle and spiritual consciousness,” Dr. Saha said.
Invoking a Sanskrit verse associated with Somnath, the Chief Minister highlighted the temple’s deep spiritual and cultural significance in Indian civilisation.
Dr. Saha also said the country has witnessed large-scale redevelopment and protection of ancient temples, cultural heritage sites and traditions since Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office in 2014. According to him, several religious structures across the country have undergone restoration and redevelopment under the present government.
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He further stated that the Tripura government has also initiated steps for the restoration and redevelopment of religious structures within the state.
Remembering India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Dr. Saha credited him for laying the foundation for the reconstruction of the modern Somnath Temple after Independence.
“Seventy-five years ago, the strong determination of the Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel paved the way for modern Somnath. Today, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this holy land reflects India’s cultural renaissance,” he said.
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister also offered prayers at Shivbari Temple as part of the observance of the Somnath Swabhiman Parva.
