Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday participated in the grand ‘Shaurya Yatra’ at the historic Somnath Temple, marking a key event of the Somnath Swabhiman Parv. The ceremonial procession was organised to honour the countless warriors and devotees who sacrificed their lives defending the sacred shrine across centuries.
PM Modi was greeted by massive crowds lining the roads as he joined the yatra amid chants of “Modi-Modi” and showers of flowers. The atmosphere turned festive as the sound of the damru, associated with Lord Shiva, echoed through the streets. The Prime Minister was seen playing the damru himself, acknowledging the people and artists who had gathered to witness the occasion.
Artists from several states including Rajasthan, Punjab, Manipur and Gujarat presented vibrant cultural performances during the procession. Many performers expressed excitement at performing before the Prime Minister, calling it a moment of pride and honour. A total of 108 horses, which escorted the Prime Minister’s convoy, became a major attraction for the spectators.
The Shaurya Yatra culminated near the Somnath Temple, where PM Modi later offered prayers. He is also scheduled to address a large public gathering at Sadbhavna Maidan as part of the ongoing celebrations.
The Somnath Swabhiman Parv highlights the temple’s enduring legacy as a symbol of India’s civilisational strength, spiritual resilience and cultural unity. This year holds special significance as it marks 75 years since the modern reconstruction of the Somnath Temple, which was inaugurated in 1951 by then President Dr Rajendra Prasad, following efforts led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel after Independence.
Later in the day, the Prime Minister will travel to Rajkot to inaugurate events under the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference and is also set to launch Phase 2 of the Ahmedabad Metro Rail Project in Gandhinagar, continuing a packed schedule of official engagements in the state.
