Department of Art & Culture to Organise State-Level Programme at Shiv Temple, Mazar Pahad
Sri Vijaya Puram, May 8: The Ministry of Culture, Government of India is organizing the Somnath Swabhiman Parv – 1000 Years of Resilience and Unwavering Faith, a year-long national commemoration from January 11, 2026 to January 11, 2027. This historic occasion marks 1000 years since the first attack on Somnath in 1026 AD and 75 years of the temple’s reconstruction and inauguration in May 1951.
The Somnath Temple stands as an enduring symbol of India’s spiritual continuity and unyielding national spirit. Through centuries of changing empires, it has endured repeated destruction and renewal, with each reconstruction reaffirming the faith, resilience, and cultural identity of the Indian people. More than a sacred shrine, Somnath reflects the strength of a civilization that refuses to forget its roots, rising from adversity with renewed resolve and inspiring generations to preserve their heritage and national pride.
Somnath Swabhiman Parv commemorates 1000 years of unbroken faith and is envisioned as a platform for meaningful cultural engagement that not only strengthens national identity but also fosters deep respect for India’s rich and diverse cultural legacy.
Somnath Swabhiman Parv marks two significant milestones in India’s historical journey: one thousand years since the first recorded attack on the Somnath Temple in 1026, and seventy-five years since the reopening of the reconstructed temple in 1951 following Independence.
As part of this nationwide celebration, the Art & Culture Department of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration will organize a State-level programme on May 11, 2026, coinciding with the grand National event at Somnath.
The State Level event will be organised in the Shiv Temple at Mazar Pahad from 9.30 am onwards. The programme will include a ‘Kalash Yatra’ starting from Ayyannar Temple near Flag Point, with wide participation of women and community groups prior to this programme which will culminate at the Shiv Temple, Mazar Pahad. A cultural programme befitting the occasion will also be held. The National Level VVIP programme at Somnath will be live telecast which will be witnessed by the gathering in the Temple.
The commemoration is not only a tribute to Somnath’s enduring legacy but also a reaffirmation of India’s cultural strength and unity. All citizens have been requested to actively participate in this celebration and make this historic occasion a memorable one for the Islands.