What is Somnath Swabhiman Parv? Inside the grand event attended by PM Modi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will reach Gujarat on Saturday to attend the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, which commemorates 1,000 years since the first attack by Mahmud of Ghazni on the historic temple.

The Somnath Parv is celebrated from January 8-11. On Saturday, the prime minister will participate in Omkar Mantra chanting at 8 pm and will view the drone show at the temple, according to a PMO release.

On Sunday, Modi will participate in Shaurya Yatra—a ceremonial procession organised to honour the countless warriors who laid down their lives defending the Somnath Temple—at 9.45 am. The Yatra will feature a symbolic procession of 108 horses, reflecting valour and sacrifice.

At 10.15 am on Sunday, Modi will perform darshan and pooja at the Somnath Temple. Later at 11 am, he will address a public function in Somnath.

The PMO claims that the Somnath Swabhiman Parv is being held to remember the countless citizens of India whose sacrifice to defend the temple continues to inspire the cultural consciousness of future generations.

"Despite multiple repeated attempts for its destruction over centuries, the Somnath Temple stands today as a powerful symbol of resilience, faith and national pride, owing to the collective resolve and efforts to restore it to its ancient glory," it said in a statement.

The completion of 75 years of the historic restoration of the temple adds special significance to the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, it added.

Hundreds of saints from across the country are participating in the four-day event.

"During the four-day Parv, Somnath has been transformed into a centre of spiritual activity, cultural reflection and national remembrance. A central feature of the observance is the 72-hour Akhand Omkar chanting, symbolising unity and collective faith. Alongside this, devotional music, spiritual discourses and cultural programmes are being organised throughout the temple town," said a separate official release issued on Saturday.