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Somnath Temple

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January 05, 2026

Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Art & Culture | History

Why in News?

The Prime Minister commemorated the historic milestone of 1000 years since the first attack on Somnath in 1026 AD.

  • It is believed to be the first among the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva.
  • Located in – Prabhas Patan near Veraval, Saurashtra, on the western coast of Gujarat.
  • Triveni Sangam – It lies at the confluence of 3 rivers - Kapila, Hiran and Sarasvati rivers.
  • Mythical Origins – It was built first by Somraj (Moon God) in gold, was later rebuilt by Ravana in silver, by Krishna in wood, and by Bhimdev in stone.
  • Historical Accounts – Al-Biruni’s (Persian scholar) detailed description contributed to its fame across regions.
  • Invasions & Destruction
    • In late 1025 or early 1026 CE, the temple was attacked by Mahmud of Ghazni, an invader from present-day Afghanistan.
    • At that time, the shrine was immensely wealthy; Mahmud seized the town and temple after a 2-day battle in which nearly 70,000 defenders lost their lives.
    • Following the conquest, he looted its vast treasures and demolished the structure.
  • Subsequent destructions – The cycle of devastation and reconstruction that continued for centuries –
    • It was again destroyed in 1297 CE (Alauddin Khilji’s forces), 1394, and 1706 by several Muslim rulers and the Portuguese.
  • The present form was reconstructed in 1951.

Architectural Features

  • The origins of the temple can be traced back to 649 BCE, though it is believed to be even older.
  • The present temple was reconstructed in the Chaulukya (Solanki) style of Hindu temple architecture and completed in May 1951, which is the symbol of national revival & cultural pride.
  • It is painted in a creamy colour and boasts fine sculpture.
  • At its Central sanctum houses a large, black Shiva lingam.
  • Other shrines - Shri Kapardi Vinayak, Hanuman Temple, also Vallabhghat, the scenic sunset point is also present.

References

  1. PIB | PM Pays Tribute to 1000 Years of Somnath’s Resilience
  2. Gujarat Tourism | Somnath Temple
  3. Gir Somnath District | Somnath Temple

 

 

 

1 comments
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DanielJFreeman 12 hours

Reading about Somnath Temple is just as thrilling as mastering a tough survival race level!

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