Modi: Somnath's story not of loss, but faith and resilience

PM DRAWS PARALLELS BETWEEN NATION'S HISTORY AND THE TEMPLE'S LEGACY

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi yesterday recalled the repeated attacks by foreign invaders on the Somnath Temple, and said that the story of the sacred shrine should not be confined to episodes of destruction alone, but should also be remembered for the courage, sacrifice and determination that led to its reconstruction every time it was attacked.

He said that Somnath Temple's journey not only marks 1,000 years of resilience and self-respect, but also commemorates 75 years since its modern reconstruction in 1951.

A celebration

Addressing a large public gathering at Sadbhavna Maidan after offering prayers at the revered shrine, Modi delivered a passionate speech and said, "This festival is not meant only to remember the destruction that took place a thousand years ago. It is a celebration of a 1,000-year journey. It is also a festival of India's existence and pride."

Drawing parallels between the nation's history and the temple's legacy, he said that India and Somnath have faced similar challenges.