By Agartala Correspondent | Tripura 24.in
AGARTALA | May 11, 2026
AGARTALA: Marking a historic day for India’s cultural and spiritual identity, Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha participated in the state-level celebration of “Somnath Swabhiman Parv” at the Shiv Bari Temple on Central Road today. The event was held to commemorate 75 years of the consecration of the rebuilt Somnath Temple in independent India and 1,000 years of its enduring resilience since the first major historical attack in 1026.
The Chief Minister arrived at the temple premises at 9:25 AM, where he performed special prayers (Puja) and offered floral tributes, joining a nationwide observance led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
A Symbol of National Self-Respect
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Manik Saha highlighted that the term “Somnath Swabhiman” (Somnath Pride) is not merely about a temple but represents the “national consciousness” of Bharat. He reminded the audience that the modern reconstruction of the shrine was made possible by the unwavering resolve of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and was inaugurated by India’s first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, on this very day (May 11) in 1951.
Key Highlights of the CM’s Address:
- Historical Resilience: The CM noted that while the temple faced repeated destruction by invaders, it was rebuilt every time, symbolizing the indomitable spirit of Indian civilization.
- “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”: Dr. Saha lauded PM Modi’s vision of harmonizing modern infrastructure development with the preservation of ancient heritage.
- Youth Outreach: He urged the younger generation to stay connected to their cultural and linguistic roots to prevent the loss of identity in a rapidly globalizing world.
Connecting Tripura with Somnath Amrut Mahotsav
The event at Shiv Bari included a live screening of the “Somnath Amrut Mahotsav” from Gujarat, where PM Modi performed Maha Puja and addressed the nation.
Local Observance in Agartala:
- Venue: The historic Shiv Bari on Central Road was decorated with lights and flowers, serving as the central hub for the state-level program.
- Spiritual Activities: The program featured Vedic chants, the Omkar Mantra, and a gathering of local devotees and administrative officials.
- Statewide Programs: Similar commemorative events were organized across Tripura’s eight districts under the initiative of the Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA) Department.
Government Commitment to Heritage
The Chief Minister reiterated that the Tripura government has initiated several projects for the restoration and redevelopment of religious structures across the state to ensure that the “glorious heritage” of Tripura remains a central theme of governance.
The Somnath Swabhiman Parv is a year-long national commemoration that began on January 11, 2026, and will continue until January 11, 2027. Today’s event in Agartala marked a pivotal moment in this journey, reinforcing the bond between the people of Tripura and the spiritual geography of India.
