On May 11, 1951, the revered Somnath Temple in Gujarat was inaugurated after a long journey of reconstruction. President Dr. Rajendra Prasad presided over the auspicious event, personally installing the sacred Shivalinga. The temple, a symbol of resilience, had endured numerous attacks by foreign invaders throughout history. The initiative for its restoration was spearheaded by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who, upon the proposal to rebuild the temple, accepted Mahatma Gandhi’s condition of non-utilization of government funds. Patel took personal responsibility for the project, with the foundation stone laid on May 8, 1950. Tragically, Sardar Patel passed away before witnessing the inauguration of the temple on December 1, 1995. Despite challenges, including opposition from some quarters, the temple’s significance persevered. Notably, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s reluctance for President Rajendra Prasad to attend the inauguration highlighted a tension between government affairs and religious sentiment. Prasad, unwavering in his faith, asserted his right to participate, emphasizing the importance of religious devotion alongside public duty.
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