Mumbai, May 11 (PTI) Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma on Monday described the Somnath Temple in Gujarat as a living example of the “Sanatan civilisation” that has stood tall despite repeated invasions over thousands of years.
Speaking at a cultural event held here to mark 75 years of the inauguration of the restored shrine of Lord Shiva, Varma noted that the temple is not just a place of worship, but “a symbol of the soul of Indian culture, faith and the Sanatan tradition”.
The event, titled “Somnath Swabhiman Parv — 1,000 Years of Unbroken Faith”, was organised by the Maharashtra Department of Cultural Affairs at Dhakleshwar Mahadev Temple.
The programme was held in conjunction with a special ‘Maha Pooja’ conducted at Somnath Temple in Gujarat in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to commemorate the reconstruction milestone.
“Despite repeated invasions over thousands of years, the Somnath Temple continues to stand tall, reflecting the enduring strength of Sanatan civilisation,” the governor said.
He said several foreign invaders, from Mahmud of Ghazni to Aurangzeb, had attempted to destroy the temple, but could not erase the faith associated with it.
“India is not merely a geographical entity but an eternal civilisation. Sanatan means that which has no end, and the Somnath Temple is a living example of that,” he said.
Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar and senior officials attended the event.
The programme opened with an Odissi dance recital by Shubhada Varadkar, depicting themes rooted in Indian spirituality and cultural heritage. PTI MR ARU
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