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From Ruins to Resurgence: Somanath Temple's Rebirth

By Dharmishthaba

Somanath Temple

Credit: Gujarat Tourism 

Introduction 

Somnath Temple is a majestic shrine located in Sagar Kant of Saurashtra in Gujarat state. The Temple is home to one of the 12 most sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is mentioned in the Rigveda. Despite facing numerous destructive foreign invaders throughout history, the resilient Somnath Temple has stood tall, radiating its glorious presence. Every time it has been targeted for destruction, it has been rebuilt, showcasing the unwavering devotion and persistence of its devotees. This blog post explores the intriguing history of the Somnath Temple, detailing its beginnings, its devastation and restoration, and its lasting impact.  

History 

It is believed that the moon god, Somraj, constructed a temple in Somnath made of gold, which was later rebuilt by Ravana in silver, Krishna in wood, and Bhimdev in stone. The current temple that stands on the original coastal site follows traditional architectural designs, painted in a creamy hue and adorned with exquisite sculptures. At its centre lies a large, black Shiva lingam, making it one of the 12 most revered Shiva shrines known as jyotirlinga.

According to historians, Somnath's first temple reportedly dates back 2000 years. It was later replaced with a second temple in 649 AD by King Maitre of Vallabhini, which was then destroyed by an army led by the ruler of Sindh in 725 AD. The temple was reconstructed for a third time in 815 AD by King Pratishtha II, this time using red sandstone. 
Between 1026 and 1042 AD, Raja Bhimdev of the Solanki dynasty constructed the fourth temple of  Bhoj and Anhilwad Patan, under the rule of the Parmar King of Malwa. 
In 1782, a small temple was constructed at the site by Ahalyabai Holkar, the queen of the Maratha dynasty.
 
Somnath Temple was destroyed and converted into a mosque, which was later rebuilt
Credit: Dr. Ramchandra Reddy , Medium 

Over the years, the Somnath Temple faced a series of destructive events, starting when Mahmud looted its magnificent wealth and subsequently destroyed it. This pattern of destruction and reconstruction persisted for centuries, with the temple being destroyed in 1297, 1394, and ultimately in 1706 by Aurangzeb, the Mughal ruler. Following the 1706 destruction, the temple remained unreconstructed until its rebuilding commenced in 1950.

Credit: GujaratExpert.com 

 Maru-Gurjara Style Architecture  


Credit: Gujarat Tourism 

The present Somnath temple was reconstructed in the Maru-Gurjara style of Hindu temple architecture. The architectural style finds its roots in the dynasties that preceded the Solanki dynasty, particularly the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty. While initially emerging as a regional style in Hindu temple architecture, it gained popularity in Jain temples.

Credit: Gujarat Tourism 

 The distinctive features 
  • Curvilinear Shikhara
  • Free-standing Kirti Torana
  • Kunda or a Temple Tank
  • Intricate carvings on Mandapa ceilings 
  • Elevated plinths with balconies providing views from multiple sides
Credit: Gujarat Tourism 

The Somnath Temple stands as a symbol of India's rich history, resilience, and devotion. It has withstood the test of time, been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, and continues to be a place of spiritual significance and cultural importance.
 

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