Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the Shaurya Yatra, a ceremonial procession organised to honour those who sacrificed their lives defending the Somnath Temple in Gujarat, on Sunday.
The one-kilometre-long yatra, part of the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, featured a procession of 108 horses, symbolising valour and sacrifice. A large crowd of people and devotees lined both sides of the route to greet the Prime Minister, who was accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
Later, Modi performed darshan and pooja at the Somnath Temple and will also address a public function in the town.
On Saturday evening, the Prime Minister participated in Omkar Mantra chanting and watched a spectacular drone show at the temple.
In a post on X, Modi described Somnath as a beacon of eternal divinity, whose sacred presence continues to guide generations. "Here are highlights from yesterday's programmes, including the Omkar Mantra chanting and the drone show," he wrote.
The Somnath Swabhiman Parv, celebrated from January 8-11, marks 1,000 years since the first attack by Mahmud of Ghazni on the historic temple. According to an official release, the event commemorates the countless sacrifices made by Indian citizens in defending the temple, whose enduring spirit continues to inspire the cultural consciousness of future generations, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said.
"Despite multiple attempts at destruction over the centuries, the Somnath Temple stands today as a powerful symbol of resilience, faith, and national pride, thanks to the collective resolve and efforts to restore it to its ancient glory," the PMO statement added.
The completion of 75 years since the historic restoration of the temple in 1952 adds special significance to the ongoing celebrations.