Somnath Temple

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