Somnath Temple, one of Hinduism’s most revered pilgrimage sites and regarded as the first Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva, marked the 75th anniversary of its post-independence reconstruction, an occasion being celebrated as a moment of immense pride for followers of Sanatan Dharma across the country.
On the sidelines of the event, in an exclusive interaction with The Statesman here, BJP leader, former Rajya Sabha member, and Gujarat MLA Shambhunath Tundiya reflected on the historical and spiritual importance of Somnath.
He noted that the temple had been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the past millennium.
“This is Somnath Mahadev’s first Jyotirlinga. It is the first faith of the Sanatanis,” he said.
“The temple has been rebuilt three to four times over the last thousand years. After India’s independence, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel took the initiative to rebuild it, and today it has completed 75 years. It is an honour for all of us,” Tundiya stressed.
He also commented on the recently concluded 2026 West Bengal (WB) Assembly Polls, describing the saffron party’s poll gains in the state as a “great” development for the country.
Talking about the political climate in the WB, the MLA claimed that people had become aware of issues similar to those witnessed in neighboring Bangladesh and said that the atmosphere of fear in the state had come to an end.
He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his leadership and described him as “the best leader,” crediting him with guiding the nation through strong and disciplined leadership.
“Being such a great ascetic, he has taken care of the entire country,” he said.
He further said the BJP’s success in the WB was closely tied to Modi’s connection with the people and his spiritual devotion.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi first sought the blessings of the people before going there, and then he came to Somnath to worship Lord Shiva,” he said and added, “The victory we have achieved is dedicated to the entire Sanatan community.”
Responding to opposition allegations that the elections were unfair, the MLA dismissed the criticism and defended the democratic process, noting that such accusations often arise only when rival political parties lose.
Tundiya also highlighted developmental work done in his constituency, including the construction of colleges, hospitals, schools, and other public infrastructure projects.
“In my constituency, I have worked on building new colleges and improving hospitals and schools. I always remain committed to serving the people,” the BJP leader said, on Monday.