PM Modi Leads ‘Shaurya Yatra’ at Somnath Temple, Honors Historic Warriors

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 'Shaurya Yatra' at Somnath Temple in Gujarat on Sunday as part of the Somnath Swabhiman Parv celebrations. The ceremonial procession honored the countless warriors who sacrificed their lives defending the historic shrine against repeated invasions over centuries. Accompanied by 108 horses, the yatra drew enormous crowds lining the streets, with devotees showering flowers and chanting "Modi-Modi" in excitement as the Prime Minister passed by.

The rhythmic beats of the damru, an instrument linked to Lord Shiva, resonated through the air as PM Modi was welcomed warmly. He actively engaged with the event by taking damrus in both hands, raising his arms, and playing the instrument with evident enthusiasm. Artists from Rajasthan, Punjab, Manipur, Gujarat, and other states performed vibrant cultural displays, adding to the festive atmosphere while the Prime Minister greeted participants along the route.

Participating artists expressed profound joy at performing in the Prime Minister's presence. One artist from Rajasthan highlighted the excitement of presenting the Mayur dance, noting prior encounters with Modi. Others emphasized the doubled enthusiasm due to Modi's Gujarati roots and the massive turnout, describing the occasion as a moment of great pride. A performer from Manipur and a Punjabi folk dancer echoed similar sentiments, underscoring the honor of contributing to the event.

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The 108 horses escorting the Prime Minister's convoy emerged as a major highlight, symbolizing strength and tradition. Local residents and devotees, including those from Bhavnagar, described the gathering of sadhus, saints, and crowds as a testament to the temple's enduring significance. The yatra served as a tribute to Somnath's legacy of civilisational courage and repeated reconstruction, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of the modern temple's inauguration in 1951 by President Dr Rajendra Prasad.

Following the procession, Prime Minister Modi offered prayers at the Somnath Temple. He is scheduled to address a large public gathering at Sadbhavna Maidan later in the day. In the afternoon, the Prime Minister will travel to Rajkot to inaugurate the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference events and subsequently launch Phase 2 of the Ahmedabad Metro Rail Project at Mahatma Mandir Metro Station in Gandhinagar.

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