SOMNATH TEMPLE, GUJARAT
The Somnath Temple, located at Prabhas Patan near Veraval on the coast of Gujarat, is one of the most sacred shrines of Hinduism. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is revered as the first among the twelve Jyotirlingas. Over the centuries, Somnath has come to symbolise not only devotion, but also the enduring spirit of Indian civilisation.
In recent times, the temple has been in the news for completing 1,000 years since the first recorded attack in 1026 CE, a milestone that highlights its extraordinary historical journey.
Sacred Origins and Importance: The name Somnath means “Lord of the Moon.” According to legend, Chandra (the Moon God) worshipped Lord Shiva at this site to be freed from a curse that caused him to wane. Pleased by his devotion, Shiva restored his brilliance and manifested here as a Jyotirlinga.
Ancient Hindu scriptures such as the Rig Veda, Shiva Purana, and Skanda Purana mention Somnath, indicating that it was regarded as a sacred site from very early times.
Early History and Rise to Prominence: Historically, Somnath grew into a grand and wealthy temple during the early medieval period. Under the Chaulukya (Solanki) rulers of Gujarat, especially King Bhima I, the temple was magnificently rebuilt in stone in the early 11th century, becoming an important centre of pilgrimage, learning, and culture.
The First Recorded Attack – 1026 CE
The first historically documented attack on the Somnath Temple occurred in January 1026 CE, when it was raided by Mahmud of Ghazni, ruler of the Ghaznavid Empire.
Despite resistance by local defenders, the temple was heavily damaged and plundered.
This event marks a turning point in Somnath’s history and is now widely recognised as the beginning of a long cycle of destruction and reconstruction. The year 2026 marks 1,000 years since this first recorded attack, bringing renewed attention to the temple’s legacy of resilience.
Cycles of Destruction and Reconstruction
After 1026 CE, Somnath was rebuilt several times by Hindu rulers and devotees:
● Reconstructed by Chaulukya kings after Mahmud of Ghazni’s raid
● Attacked again in 1299 CE by forces of Alauddin Khilji
● Rebuilt by the Chudasama rulers of Gujarat in the 14th century
● Damaged again in 1395 CE under Zafar Khan, founder of the Gujarat Sultanate
● During the Mughal period, especially under Aurangzeb, the temple faced further destruction and neglect
Each time, Somnath rose again—earning its reputation as a shrine that refused to disappear.
Rebirth in Independent India: After India gained independence, the reconstruction of Somnath became a matter of national pride. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel strongly advocated rebuilding the temple as a symbol of cultural self-respect and renewal.
The present temple was completed and consecrated in 1951, marking one of the earliest large cultural reconstruction projects of independent India.
Architecture and Setting: The current Somnath Temple is built in the Chalukya style of architecture, noted for its balance, elegance, and intricate carvings.
● The shikhara (spire) rises over 150 feet
● It is crowned with a golden Kalash
● The temple faces the Arabian Sea, creating a powerful and serene backdrop
● An inscription near the shore famously states that there is no land between Somnath and the South Pole, reflecting ancient India’s geographical understanding.
Living Traditions and Festivals: Somnath remains a vibrant centre of worship. Daily Abhishek, Aarti, and Darshan rituals attract thousands of devotees. Major festivals such as Mahashivratri, the month of Shravan, and Kartik Purnima see large pilgrimages.
The sound of temple bells blending with ocean waves gives Somnath its unique spiritual atmosphere.
Did You Know?
🔹 Somnath is the first Jyotirlinga among the twelve sacred Shiva shrines.
🔹 The first recorded attack on the temple took place in January 1026 CE.
🔹 The year 2026 marks 1,000 years since that historic attack.
🔹 Somnath has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times over nearly a millennium.
🔹 The modern temple was completed in 1951, soon after India’s independence.
🔹 The site is believed to be a Triveni Sangam, where the rivers Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati meet the sea.
Somnath: A Symbol Beyond Stone
Today, the Somnath Temple stands as a monument to faith that survives time and turmoil. Its thousand-year history reminds us that while structures may fall, belief, culture, and identity endure. Facing the endless sea, Somnath continues to inspire generations with its message of resilience, devotion, and rebirth.
