Somnath Swabhiman Parv Celebrated Across Goa Honouring India’s Spiritual Heritage
*“Somnath Parv is not just a celebration of a temple, it is a celebration of India’s civilizational strength and spiritual identity,” says Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant*
Panaji, May 11, 2026:
Goa witnessed a large-scale spiritual observance as Somnath Swabhiman Parv 2026 was commemorated at Shree Goveshwar Mahadev Temple, Jagatguru Narendracharya Maharaj Sansthan, Uppith Bainguinim, Old Goa. The programme was organised as part of a nationwide initiative of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. It marked 1000 Years of Unbroken Faith associated with the sacred Somnath Jyotirling and celebrated India’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
The observance marks two significant milestones in India’s cultural history – 1000 years since the first recorded attack on the Somnath Temple in 1026 and 75 years since the consecration of the reconstructed temple after Independence in 1951. As part of the Goa observance, spiritual programmes including Omkar Jap and Abhishek Puja were organised at 21 temples across the State. The main function was held at Shree Goveshwar Mahashiv Temple, Jagatguru Narendracharya Maharaj Sansthan, Uppith Bainguinim, Old Goa. The programme featured collective Omkar Jap, Somnath Sankalp pledge, devotional bhajans, plantation of a Bael tree, screening of an animated film on Somnath, and live streaming of the national programme from Somnath, Gujarat.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said, “Somnath Parv is not just a celebration of a temple, it is a celebration of India’s civilizational strength and spiritual identity.” He stated that the observance symbolises India’s spiritual resilience, cultural pride, and the revival of Sanatan heritage. Referring to the history of the Somnath Temple, he noted that despite repeated destruction over centuries, the temple was rebuilt through faith and determination. He also highlighted the historic role of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in its reconstruction after Independence.
CM Dr. Sawant also highlighted Goa’s deep spiritual and cultural legacy and noted how people preserved temples, traditions, and deities during Portuguese rule by rebuilding temples elsewhere and safeguarding their faith. He said that Goa is witnessing a strong revival of spiritual and temple tourism. He added that initiatives such as restoration of the Saptakoteshwar Temple, development of spiritual circuits, and reconstruction of heritage temples reflect continued commitment towards preserving Goa’s spiritual and cultural heritage. He further emphasised the importance of keeping future generations connected to Sanatan values, Indian culture, and spiritual traditions.
As part of the statewide observance, spiritual programmes were also organised at various temples across Goa, including Shree Mallikarjuna Temple, Canacona; Shree Rudreshwar Devasthan, Sankhali; Shree Damodar Devasthan, Margao; Shree Mahadev Temple, Ponda; Shree Somnath Devasthan, Khandepar; Shree Mangesh Sansthan, Mangeshi; and other temple locations associated with the Somnath Swabhiman Parv celebrations.
The programme was attended by Union Minister Shri Shripad Naik; Shri Vivek Naik, Director, Art and Culture; along with devotees, organisers, and other dignitaries.
DI/NB/AXP/CR/SN/2026/