On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Gujarat’s Shri Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple and offered prayers. He performed the sacred ‘Rudra Abhishek’ at the temple. Somnath is the first of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The temple is located in Prabhas Patan, a region with great religious significance for Hindus.
Modi, who wore a saffron kurta, performed darshan and engaged in prayer rituals at the Shiva shrine, reflecting his deep devotion to Lord Shiva. The ceremony involved performing the traditional Rudra Abhishek, where devotees offer various sacred offerings to the deity.
The visit is part of Prime Minister Modi’s three-day tour to Gujarat, which began on Saturday. Following his visit to the Somnath Temple, he headed to Sasan, the headquarters of Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. Located in Junagadh district, Gir is the only habitat of Asiatic lions in the world, making it a crucial conservation area.
On Monday, PM Modi is scheduled to go on a lion safari and lead a meeting of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) to mark World Wildlife Day. His focus on wildlife conservation highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats and protecting endangered species.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi, furthermore, extended his heartfelt wishes to the people as the holy month of Ramadan began. Through a post on social media platform X, he said, “As the blessed month of Ramzan begins, may it bring peace and harmony in our society. This sacred month represents reflection, gratitude, and devotion. It also reminds us of compassion, kindness, and service. Ramzan Mubarak!
PM Modi’s visit to the Somnath Temple included a moment of reverence towards Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s statue. The statue stands proudly within the temple premises. Patel, one of India’s founding fathers, played a crucial role in the integration of the country post-independence.
In addition to his religious and wildlife engagements, PM Modi met former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott. Abbott, currently in India, enjoyed the local delicacy of millets at Dilli Haat. PM Modi expressed his delight in meeting Abbott, sharing a picture of the two on X. He mentioned, “Delighted to meet my good friend and former Australian PM Tony Abbott. He has always been a friend of India. We have all seen him enjoy millets during his current visit.”
PM Modi’s visit to Gujarat continues to highlight the spiritual, cultural, and environmental importance of the state. His participation in the Rudra Abhishek at Somnath Temple reflects his commitment to preserving India’s heritage. His dedication to wildlife conservation highlights his focus on environmental sustainability.
