Have you guys heard about Somnath temple, the first in the twelve Jyothirlingas, is located at the Viraval port - Prabhas Pattan in Saurashtra – Gujarat?

Speaking about the History of Somnath Temple…

Delving into the annals of history, the legend of Somnath Temple unfolds, intertwined with the celestial dance of the Moon and the divine presence of Lord Shiva. According to ancient lore, the genesis of this narrative can be traced back to the union of Moon (Chandra) and the twenty-seven stars. An enraged Daksh Prajapati, upon a dispute, cursed his son-in-law, Moon, decreeing a gradual loss of his luminance and size until he turned imperceptible each day.

In search of redemption from this relentless curse, Moon sought the guidance of Lord Shiva, the supreme deity. Lord Shiva, in his benevolence, advised Moon to venerate him devoutly. Following ardent prayers and penance, Lord Shiva granted Moon a boon, ensuring his restoration to full glory.

This sacred locale where Moon sought solace and invoked Lord Shiva came to be known as Somnath, signifying the 'Lord of Moon.' This ancient tale, where the moon's brilliance shines brightest. An auspicious Kund (pool), created by the Devas, graces the temple premises. Devotees from far and wide pilgrimage to Somnath to partake in ritualistic ablutions in this sacred pool, seeking to cleanse their souls of transgressions.

Do you know Somnath temple which was renowned worldwide for holding great treasury was looted and plundered several times?

The illustrious Somnath Temple, a beacon of ancient Hindu architecture and devotion, has etched its tale of resilience across the annals of history. Recognised globally for its opulent treasury, it became a magnet for a series of invasions and plunder. Mahmud of Ghazni, Alauddin Khilji, Aurangzeb, and even the Portuguese sought to dim its radiance, yet with each desecration, it emerged more resplendent in subsequent restorations.

Let's take a dive into the amazing facts of the incredible temple that has been etched into the history of Hindu Temples.

1. Within the precincts of Somnath Temple, the Archaeological Department of the Government of India has enshrined a sacred Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva upon the revered Brahmashila discovered through meticulous excavation.

2. The foundation stone of this magnificent edifice was ceremoniously laid on 8 May 1940 by Digvijay Singh, the former emperor of Saurashtra. Later, on 11 May 1951, post the attainment of independence, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the inaugural President of India, consecrated the Jyotirlinga within the temple.

3. The grandeur of Somnath Temple unfolds across three distinct sections - the Garbhagriha, the Sabhamandapa, and the Nrityamandapa. The pinnacle soars to an impressive height of approximately 150 feet, a testament to its awe-inspiring architectural prowess.

4. Adorning the apex of the temple is a colossal Kalash weighing a remarkable 10 tonnes, crowned by a flag standing tall at 27 feet, a true emblem of the temple's grandeur.

5. The sanctum houses not only the revered Shivling but also revered idols of Parvati, Saraswati Devi, Lakshmi, Ganga, and Nandi. Above the Shivling, graces the upper part of the sanctum with the Ahalyeshwar idol.

6. Nestled within the temple grounds is a Temple dedicated to Ganesha, and just beyond the north gate stands an idol of Aghorling, enhancing the spiritual sanctity of the complex.

7. Adjacent to the Ahalyabai temple in Prabhavnagar, a grand Temple of Mahakali stands tall, symbolizing the diversity and spiritual richness within the temple vicinity. Temples devoted to Ganeshji, Bhadrakali, and Lord Vishnu add to the spiritual tapestry of the sacred city.

8. A tranquil lake named Gaurikund graces the city gate, and near its shores rests an ancient Shivling, echoing the age-old sanctity of this revered place.

9. In antiquity, this region was known as Prabhas Kshetra. Lord Shri Krishna, in his divine play, described his leela at this very place, marking it with the incident of Jara, a huntsman, and his fateful arrow.

10. A historical link to antiquity exists in the devdwaras housed within Agra Fort, believed to be a relic from the Somnath temple. These gates were carried away by Mahmud during the plunder of Ghazni in 1026 AD.

11. The gates of Somnath Temple open daily at 6 am and remain accessible until 9 pm. Aarti, a reverent ritual, graces the sanctum three times a day (at 7 am, 12 pm, and 7 pm).

12. Embracing the mystical ambiance, a one-hour sound and light show enthralls visitors from 7:30 to 8:30 pm within the temple precincts.

13. Situated about 200 km away, the sacred city of Dwarka, abode of Lord Krishna, beckons devotees. Every day, pilgrims from far and wide journey to witness the divine grace of Dwarkadhish.


Today, we celebrate the indomitable spirit of Somnath Temple – a grand heritage that has triumphed over time itself.

Source: News9Live , MyIndianGlory