Indian Temples : Somnath Temple, Gujarat - Highlights

 

Somnath Temple, Gujarat

Introduction

The Somnath Temple, situated in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Gujarat, is one of the most sacred Hindu shrines and is revered as the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Standing majestically on the Arabian Sea coast, the temple is regarded as the “Eternal Shrine” because it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times in history, yet continues to inspire devotion and resilience.

History in Detail

The Somnath Temple’s history is deeply interwoven with mythology, faith, and resilience:

  • Mythological Origins: Legends state that the temple was originally built by the Moon God (Chandra) in gold, later rebuilt in silver by Ravana, then in wood by Lord Krishna, and finally in stone by King Bhimadeva of the Solanki dynasty. Chandra worshipped Lord Shiva here to be freed from Daksha’s curse, leading Shiva to manifest as Somnath, meaning “Protector of the Moon.”

  • Early Constructions: Historical evidence suggests that the temple has existed since at least the early centuries CE, with literary references in the Rigveda and Puranas describing its sanctity.

  • Invasions & Reconstructions:

    • In 1024 CE, Mahmud of Ghazni plundered the temple, looting immense treasures and destroying the shrine.
    • The temple was rebuilt multiple times by Hindu kings but faced repeated invasions by rulers such as Alauddin Khilji’s forces in the 14th century and later by Aurangzeb in 1706 CE, who ordered its destruction once again.
    • Despite these destructions, the shrine was consistently revived by local kings and devotees.

  • Modern Reconstruction: After India’s independence, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel initiated the temple’s reconstruction in 1947. The present structure was completed in 1951, built in the Chalukyan style of architecture.


Significance

  • Somnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, giving it immense spiritual importance.
  • It symbolizes the immortality of faith, having been rebuilt each time after destruction.
  • The temple is also sacred because it is located near the Triveni Sangam—the confluence of the Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati rivers—believed to be the site where Lord Krishna left his earthly body.
  • A visit to Somnath is believed to absolve devotees of sins and lead them towards moksha (salvation).

Temple Details & Architecture

  • The current temple is built in the Chalukyan style, characterized by intricate stone carvings and grandeur.
  • The shikhara (spire) rises to 50 meters, crowned with a massive 10-ton kalash (finial).
  • Inside, the sanctum houses the revered Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva, worshipped daily by thousands.
  • The temple complex features beautifully carved pillars, sculpted motifs, and a Baan Stambh (Arrow Pillar) that points southwards into the sea, symbolizing infinity—indicating that no landmass lies between Somnath and Antarctica in a straight line.
  • A museum within the complex displays ancient sculptures, idols, and inscriptions.
  • A sound and light show is held every evening, narrating the temple’s history and mythology.

Timings & Darshan

  • Temple Hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily.
  • Aarti Timings:
    • Morning Aarti – 7:00 AM
    • Midday Aarti – 12:00 Noon
    • Evening Aarti – 7:00 PM
  • Sound & Light Show: 8:00 PM daily, conducted in multiple languages.

Connectivity

  • By Air: Nearest airport is Diu Airport (65 km away). Other options include Porbandar Airport (122 km) and Rajkot Airport (195 km).
  • By Rail: Veraval Railway Station (7 km away) is the nearest, well-connected to major cities like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Junagadh.
  • By Road: Somnath is well linked to Gujarat’s road network, with frequent buses and taxis from Ahmedabad (400 km), Rajkot (200 km), and Dwarka (235 km).

Legacy

The Somnath Temple is not only a religious shrine but also a symbol of India’s cultural pride and resilience. Despite centuries of plunder, it has always risen again as a beacon of hope and faith. Today, it stands as a grand spiritual and architectural monument managed by the Shree Somnath Trust, which also oversees charitable activities, pilgrim facilities, and educational programs.

Somnath continues to embody the eternal spirit of devotion, living up to its title as the “Shrine Eternal.”



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