New Delhi, Jan 5: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday commemorated 1,000 years since the first attack on the Somnath Temple in 1026 AD, describing the shrine as a timeless emblem of India’s civilisational resilience and unbreakable spirit.

In an Op-Ed titled “Somnath Swabhiman Parv – A 1000 Years of Unbroken Faith (1026–2026)”, the Prime Minister said Somnath’s legacy transcends its identity as a temple, representing the courage and faith of generations who safeguarded India’s culture despite repeated assaults.

“Jai Somnath! 2026 marks 1000 years since the first attack on Somnath took place. Despite repeated attacks subsequently, Somnath stands tall! This is because Somnath’s story is about the unbreakable courage of countless children of Bharat Mata who protected our culture and civilisation,” PM Modi wrote in a post on X.

The Prime Minister recalled that the temple, located at Prabhas Patan on Gujarat’s western coast, was first attacked in January 1026 by Mahmud of Ghazni. Despite devastation documented in historical accounts, Somnath was rebuilt time and again by rulers and devotees who refused to surrender their faith.

PM Modi highlighted the contributions of Ahilyabai Holkar, who rebuilt the shrine in the 18th century, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who resolved to reconstruct it after Independence. The restored temple was inaugurated in May 1951 in the presence of President Dr. Rajendra Prasad, with K.M. Munshi playing a pivotal role in the reconstruction effort.

The Prime Minister also cited Swami Vivekananda’s reflections on Somnath as a testament to India’s national spirit that regenerates despite adversity. Drawing parallels with modern India, he said the same civilisational resilience is visible today as India emerges as a global growth engine, with its cultural heritage and innovation gaining worldwide recognition.

Concluding his message, PM Modi said Somnath remains a beacon of hope, symbolising the triumph of faith over destruction. He invoked the blessings of Somnath Mahadev, affirming India’s resolve to build a Viksit Bharat guided by civilisational wisdom.