Gir Somnath, May 8 (IANS) Describing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s electoral performance in West Bengal as “a second independence”, Gujarat Agriculture and Spokesperson Minister Jitu Vaghani said on Friday that the outcome reflected public acceptance of development under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Addressing a press conference held at Somnath Sagar Darshan in connection with the Prime Minister’s upcoming visit to Gujarat on May 11, Minister Vaghani said, “The victory achieved in Bengal after India’s independence is equivalent to a second independence.”

He added that Prime Minister Modi’s presence at the ‘Somnath Amrit Parv’ would be “a matter of pride and joy for all of us”.

Minister Vaghani said the Somnath temple, despite repeated historical invasions, has remained unshaken in its faith and identity and continues to stand as a symbol of Sanatan Dharma.

“The 75-year milestone of its reconstruction was a moment of pride for Gujarat and the nation, with citizens eagerly awaiting the Prime Minister’s visit,” he added.

Recalling historical events associated with the Somnath temple, Minister Vaghani referred to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s visit to Somnath after witnessing its ruins, saying: “Patel had been moved by its condition and resolved its reconstruction by taking a pledge with seawater in his hands.”

He also noted that the consecration ceremony of the reconstructed Somnath temple was held on May 11, 1951, by the first President of India, Rajendra Prasad, and that the “completion of 75 years is being commemorated as the ‘Somnath Amrit Parv'”.

Minister Vaghani outlined the arrangements for Prime Minister Modi’s visit, saying: “He (PM Modi) will arrive in Somnath from Jamnagar and proceed to a roadshow from Triveni Helipad to the statue of Veer Hamirji Gohil, covering a distance of around one kilometre.”

The route will feature cultural performances, including dance presentations representing various states, along with a backdrop highlighting the 12 Jyotirlingas.

At the temple complex, Rishikumaras and members of the Ahir community in traditional attire will welcome the Prime Minister, alongside participation from Bengali families in traditional dress.

Rituals scheduled at the temple include Kumbhabhishek, flag worship, and Mahapuja.

The programme will also feature a Surya Kiran air show and a helicopter flower shower over the temple premises.

Following the temple ceremonies, the Prime Minister will address a public gathering at Sadbhavana Ground.

“Somnath Amrit Parv celebrations include exhibitions and cultural programmes marking the 75-year journey of the reconstructed shrine, which is a living symbol of faith and national pride for devotees across the world,” he noted.

He added that the celebrations aim to provide a spiritual experience to visitors.

After completing the Somnath engagements, Prime Minister Modi will travel to Vadodara to inaugurate the Sardardham educational complex.

–IANS

mys/khz