MP: CM Mohan Yadav Flags Off First Batch of Somnath Swabhiman Yatra from Bhopal, Said Somnath is Symbol of Our National Pride
Bhopal: MP Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav stated that Somnath is a symbol of India’s ancient heritage, faith and national pride. He said that Somnath stands as testimony to the fact that the power of creation is always greater than the power of destruction. Every brick of Somnath reflects the fervour of devotion and the glory of India’s resurgence. Throughout history, several attempts were made to destroy the temple, but every time, it rose again with even greater grandeur. Even after seventeen invasions, the eternal presence of Lord Shiva continues to reside at Somnath.
CM was addressing a program held on Thursday, during which he flagged off the first contingent of the 'Somnath Swabhiman Yatra' from Platform No. 1 of Rani Kamalapati Railway Station. Organized by the Department of Culture, this prestigious journey is being undertaken as part of the 'Somnath Swabhiman Parv'..
The year 2026 holds special significance in the temple’s history, as the first attack on the temple took place in 1026, exactly a thousand years ago. In January this year, exactly one thousand years after the invasion, a grand Swabhiman Parv was celebrated at Somnath under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The divinity and grandeur of Somnath continue to remain unparalleled and extraordinary even today.
Travellers presented Trishul to CM as Symbol of Valour
Dr. Yadav flagged off the train and inaugurated the programme by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Ritual worship of urns carrying water from 21 major rivers of the country was also performed. Upon the Chief Minister’s arrival at the venue, he was accorded a grand welcome amid the beats of drums and damru.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav handed over water urns and flags to the pilgrims for offering water from 21 rivers at the Somnath Jyotirlinga. The travellers presented a trishul to Dr. Yadav as a symbol of valour.
Journey will be memorable with chanting, satsang and kirtan
CM Dr. Yadav said that the train carrying pilgrims from Bhopal, Ujjain, Sehore, Raisen, Vidisha, Neemuch, Mandsaur, Agar-Malwa and other districts will reach Somnath on May 8. He extended his best vishes and congratulations to all passengers of the train.
He said that the Indian Sanatan culture upholds the philosophy of “live and let live.” A journey undertaken with devotional chanting, satsang, kirtan, mutual affection, and harmony would remain unforgettable for all devotees. He added that human life should be devoted to welfare-oriented activities carried out with a spirit of brotherhood and by viewing the entire humanity as one family, a core value of Indian culture.