On Sunday, January 11, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at Somnath, Gujarat, cautioned India to remain vigilant against forces of "appeasement" and division, asserting that they are still actively plotting to disrupt the nation. Modi also subtly referenced Jawaharlal Nehru while claiming that "conspiracies" are afoot to divide India by means 'other than the sword'.
Addressing a crowd during the 'Somnath Swabhiman Parv,' Modi reflected on the historical significance of the Somnath temple, framing it as a symbol of resistance against what he described as "religious terrorism". He highlighted the temple's repeated destruction and reconstruction over centuries, emphasizing the unwavering faith and resilience of the Indian people. The Prime Minister noted that the Somnath Temple strengthened the sentiment of India's cultural unity. He also lamented the lack of recognition for figures like Raval Kanhardev, Veer Hamirji, and Vegda Bhil, who defended the shrine against invaders.
Modi accused certain historians and politicians of distorting historical events, alleging they attempted to disguise "religious terrorism" as mere avarice and concealed the "cruel history of hatred, atrocities, and terrorism". He drew a parallel between historical challenges and contemporary issues, suggesting that forces opposing the Somnath temple's reconstruction after independence persist today.
The Prime Minister's address was part of the 'Somnath Swabhiman Parv' celebrations, marking 1,000 years since the first attack on the temple. He participated in special rituals, including the chanting of the 'Omkar Mantra'. Modi also witnessed a grand drone show that depicted the history of Somnath, with nearly 3,000 drones creating visuals of Lord Shiva, a Shivling, and a 3D representation of the temple.
Earlier in the day, Modi participated in the 'Shaurya Yatra,' a procession honoring those who sacrificed their lives defending the Somnath temple. The yatra featured a symbolic procession of 108 horses, representing valor and sacrifice.
The Prime Minister, who also serves as the president of the Somnath Temple Trust, described the atmosphere at the event as "marvelous", also adding that the presence of devotees made the occasion divine and grand. He said that a thousand years ago, people risked their lives and sacrificed everything for their faith. Modi also assured investors of "extraordinary certainty" in India amid global economic turbulence, during the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference in Rajkot.
