‘Politics Was Played’: PM Modi Recalls Patel’s Resolve Amid Nehru’s Opposition To Somnath Consecration

Last Updated:May 11, 2026, 14:51 IST

PM Modi further said the Somnath Temple symbolised resilience because it had been rebuilt several times through history despite repeated destruction.

Somnath Amrut Mahotsav: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday took a veiled dig at the opposition and said that issues connected to national pride had often become subjects of politics in India.

While addressing the gathering to commemorate the 75 years of the reconstructed Somnath Temple, PM Modi said that the reconstruction of Somnath Temple after Independence faced political opposition, claiming that then PM Jawaharlal Nehru had opposed efforts led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and then President Rajendra Prasad.

“After independence, one of the first responsibilities was the restoration of the Somnath Temple. For this, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Rajendra Prasad made significant efforts. However, it is well known that they faced strong opposition from Jawaharlal Nehru," he said.

The Prime Minister further said that Sardar Patel remained firm despite resistance and ensured the reconstruction of the temple.

“It was Sardar Sahab’s willpower that, despite facing such fierce opposition, he remained unwavering in his resolve regarding Somnath. Consequently, the temple was rebuilt," he said.

PM Modi also said that many countries across the world had rebuilt symbols of national identity destroyed by invaders, but in India even issues related to cultural heritage became politically controversial. He also claimed that “appeasement politics" still existed in the country and referred to opposition faced during the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

“Unfortunately, there are still forces active in our country today that prioritise appeasement over national self-respect. We have witnessed this even during occasions such as the construction of the Ram Temple. We have seen how even the construction of the Ram Temple faced opposition. We must remain vigilant against such a mindset. We must move forward by taking development and heritage together," he said.

He later paid tribute to leaders associated with the reconstruction of Somnath Temple, and said that their efforts continue to inspire people to preserve India’s cultural heritage and pass it on to future generations.

The Prime Minister also said the consecration of the reconstructed Somnath Temple in 1951 marked the beginning of a “new journey of consciousness" for independent India.

PM Modi further said the Somnath Temple symbolised resilience because it had been rebuilt several times through history despite repeated destruction.

He mentioned rulers including Raja Bhoj, Bhimdev, Kumarapala and Mahipal for their contributions towards rebuilding the temple in different periods.

The Prime Minister also linked spirituality with scientific progress, saying the worship of Lord Shiva and Shakti had inspired national achievements. Referring to India’s nuclear programme, he congratulated citizens on the success of “Operation Shakti".

Somnath Amrut Mahotsav

The Somnath Amrut Mahotsav is being organised to commemorate 75 years since the inauguration of the restored temple by India’s first President, Dr Rajendra Prasad, in 1951.

PM Modi performed rituals, including ‘Abhishek’, ‘Dhwaj Pooja’ and ‘Maha Pooja’, at the temple. Flower petals were also showered on the shrine from helicopters during the ceremonies.

The Somnath temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and is a symbol of India’s enduring faith and civilisational heritage.

(With inputs from agencies)

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