Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced a three-day visit to Gujarat on Saturday with prayers at the Somnath Temple, marking the beginning of a series of religious, cultural, and developmental engagements. Upon his arrival in Somnath, Modi was greeted by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and other dignitaries. A large crowd of local residents and devotees lined the route to welcome the Prime Minister as his convoy made its way to the VVIP circuit house near the temple.
The visit coincides with the ‘Somnath Swabhiman Parv,’ a four-day celebration from January 8 to 11, commemorating 1,000 years since the first attack on the Somnath Temple in 1026. Modi participated in the ‘Omkar Jap’ at the temple, joining the ongoing 72-hour Akhand Omkar chanting. He also witnessed a drone show depicting key historical episodes associated with the temple. Hundreds of saints from across India have gathered at Somnath to participate in the chanting, creating a spiritual atmosphere.
On Sunday, the Prime Minister is scheduled to participate in the ‘Shaurya Yatra’, a ceremonial procession honoring those who defended the temple over centuries. The procession will feature a symbolic march of 108 horses, representing courage, sacrifice, and valour. Following the Shaurya Yatra, Modi will offer prayers at the Somnath Temple and address a public function marking the Somnath Swabhiman Parv.
Later on Sunday, Modi will travel to Rajkot to attend the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference for the Kutch and Saurashtra regions. He is expected to announce the development of 14 greenfield GIDC industrial estates and inaugurate a medical device park.
On Monday, the final day of his Gujarat visit, the Prime Minister will host German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Ahmedabad. The agenda includes a visit to Sabarmati Ashram and participation in the International Kite Festival, followed by bilateral talks reviewing the India–Germany strategic partnership.
The Somnath Swabhiman Parv also marks 75 years since the temple's post-Independence restoration, completed in 1951 following efforts led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The events underscore the temple's role as a symbol of resilience, cultural continuity and India's enduring spiritual values.
