Gir Somnath/New Delhi, January 11, 2026 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a gathering organized by the Somnath Trust, made a significant statement regarding the historical and contemporary challenges faced by India’s cultural heritage. The Prime Minister noted that the same ideologies and forces that attempted to block the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple after Independence are still operative in various forms.
Historical Context and Resilience PM Modi reminded the audience that the Somnath Temple stands as a symbol of India’s indomitable will. “Somnath has been destroyed many times, but its spiritual power has always led to its resurgence. However, we must not forget that even during its reconstruction under the leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, there were voices that opposed it. Those same forces are still active today,” the PM remarked.
A Call for Vigilance The Prime Minister asserted that for a nation to move forward, it must be proud of its roots. He urged the citizens to stay vigilant against forces that try to diminish India’s spiritual landmarks or create hurdles in the path of cultural restoration. He linked the development of the Somnath circuit to the broader vision of making India a global hub for religious tourism.
Modern Infrastructure at Somnath Highlighting the work of the Trust, PM Modi discussed the ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at improving the devotee experience. He stated that the “rebuilding” of Somnath is not just about a structure, but about the “rebuilding of the Indian consciousness.”
