Somnath Temple Image Credit source: PTI
Somnath Temple: Today there is a flood of devotion and reverence in the courtyard of Lord Somnath, the first Jyotirling located on the sea coast of Saurashtra. On this occasion of Somnath Swabhiman festival, PM Modi performed Jalabhishek of Somnath Jyotirlinga and performed special puja with Vedic mantras. Let us know why Somnath Temple is so special among the temples around the world and what secrets are hidden in its architecture.
History and mythological importance of Somnath temple
First Jyotirlinga: Where Chandradev got freedom from curse
According to mythological beliefs, Somnath is considered the first among the 12 Adi Jyotirlingas. This place is called Prabhas Tirtha. The story is that to get freedom from the curse of Prajapati Daksh, Chandradev (Soma) had performed severe penance of Lord Shiva at this place. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva gave him life, hence the name of this temple was Somnath, which means Lord of the Moon.
Architectural grandeur: the glitter of gold and the echo of the sea
The present Somnath temple is an unmatched example of modern engineering and ancient craft due to its architecture:
Height and Kalash: The height of the peak of the temple is 150 feet. A huge Kalash weighing 10 tonnes is installed on its topmost part.
Golden Aura: The entire temple complex is glittering with 1,666 gold-plated vases. The flag of the temple is 27 feet high, which is visible from a distance only from the sea.
Structure: The temple is divided into three main parts. Sanctum sanctorum, assembly hall and dance hall. The carvings here bring alive the nuances of Indian culture.
Specialties of Somnath Dham
Akhand Jyoti: An eternal flame keeps burning in the temple, which is considered a symbol of the permanent form of Shiva.
Unique Architecture: The present temple is built in Chalukya style of architecture. Its grandeur and carvings are worth seeing.
Baan Stambh (Baan Stambh): This is a pillar installed in the south direction of the temple. There is an inscription in Sanskrit on it, which says that there is no land on earth from this point to the South Pole.
Kapil Kund: Near the temple is the Kapil Kund established by Kapil Muni, where bathing is considered sacred.
This ancient first Jyotirlinga is very important for the devotees of Shiva, hence statistics show that every year around 92 to 97 lakh devotees come to have darshan of Somnath Mahadev.
▶️ PM Modi performed puja with Vedic chanting ▶️ PM Modi performed Jalabhishek of Somnath Jyotirlinga #PMModi #Gujarat #ShauryaYatra #SomnathSwabhimaanParv #SomnathTemple , @dineshgautam1 , @VivekSrivastav_ , @avanijeshDU , @omjee25 pic.twitter.com/vkFVkNaJZ4
— TV9 Bharatvarsh (@TV9Bharatvarsh) January 11, 2026
Also read: Not only Somnath, these temples of the country related to Som are also centers of faith, know their historical importance.
Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.