Gandhinagar, May 8 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Friday highlighted the 75th anniversary of the reconstruction and inauguration of the Somnath Temple in a social media post, marking the occasion as a significant milestone in the temple’s modern history.

In his post on social media platform X, Chief Minister Patel said: “75 years ago, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had taken the resolve for the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the sacred site is now witnessing a renewed phase of India’s cultural resurgence.”

Patel also called upon citizens to be part of the commemorative occasion marking 75 years of Somnath’s restored legacy.

The Somnath Temple, located in Gujarat’s Gir Somnath district, is one of the most prominent Hindu pilgrimage sites and has historically been rebuilt multiple times over centuries.

The modern reconstruction of the temple was initiated in the post-independence period, following the efforts associated with Sardar Patel, who supported its rebuilding through a public trust model.

The reconstructed temple was completed and inaugurated in May 1951 by the then President of India, Dr Rajendra Prasad.

According to historical accounts, the initiative for rebuilding the temple after India’s independence was closely associated with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who backed the formation of a trust to oversee reconstruction and public fundraising for the project.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Somnath on May 11 to participate in commemorative events linked to the 75th anniversary of the temple’s reconstruction.

His visit is expected to include participation in religious and ceremonial programmes at the temple complex, continuing a series of engagements he has had at Somnath in recent years.

Earlier this year, the Prime Minister participated in commemorative events at Somnath marking broader historical milestones connected to the temple’s legacy, including programmes highlighting its cultural and historical significance.

During those events, he referred to Somnath as “a symbol of resilience and continuity in India’s civilisational history”.

The current commemorative observances are part of wider events marking both the temple’s historical reconstruction and its enduring importance as a major religious and cultural landmark in India.

The 75-year milestone is being observed alongside broader discussions on heritage preservation and cultural revival associated with the Somnath shrine.

–IANS

mys/pgh