By Devansh Taneja
Somnath, Gujarat
Somnath, Gujarat
Bhagwan Shiv
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Somnath is recognized as the foremost among the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. As per legend, it is at this location that Lord Shiva bestowed his blessings upon (Som) Chandra Dev, leading to the name Somnath, which translates to 'Lord of the Moon.'
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The Somnath Temple, situated in Gujarat, is thought to have been initially constructed by the Moon God, Soma, using gold. Throughout history, it underwent several reconstructions: Ravana rebuilt it in silver, Lord Krishna in wood, and King Bhimdev in stone.
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The Somnath Temple was notoriously attacked by Mahmud of Ghazni in the year 1025 AD. In spite of the devastation, the temple was reconstructed by the dedicated rulers and citizens of Gujarat, serving as a testament to resilience and unwavering faith.
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Somnath Temple features an arrow pillar (Baan Stambh) that points directly towards the South Pole. It symbolizes that there is no landmass between the temple and the South Pole, a marvel of ancient knowledge.
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Somnath is revered in various ancient scriptures, including the Skanda Purana, Shiv Purana, and Shreemad Bhagavat. These texts highlight the temple’s spiritual significance and its role in Hindu mythology.
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The Somnath Temple stands as an architectural masterpiece, crafted in the Chalukya style. Its towering shikhara (spire) ascends to a height of 150 feet, while the elaborate carvings adorning its walls illustrate various narratives from Hindu mythology.
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It is believed that Lord Krishna ended his earthly journey at Prabhas Kshetra, near Somnath. This connection to Lord Krishna adds to the temple’s spiritual significance, making it a revered site for devotees of Krishna.
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Near Somnath, the Triveni Sangam marks the confluence of three rivers: Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati. This sacred spot is considered highly auspicious, and pilgrims often bathe here before visiting the temple.
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The restoration of Somnath Temple in 1951, spearheaded by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, is regarded as an emblem of India's unity and resilience following independence. The temple's revival serves as a testament to the nation's lasting cultural and spiritual legacy.