Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced his three-day Gujarat tour on January 10, 2026, with a visit to the Somnath temple. He participated in the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, marking 1,000 years since the temple’s first attack in 1026. The tour includes cultural events, roadshows, and diplomatic meetings with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his three-day visit to Gujarat with a spiritual stop at the historic Somnath temple in Gir Somnath district. The visit coincides with the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, a cultural and spiritual celebration commemorating a millennium since Mahmud of Ghazni’s invasion in 1026.
Modi attended Omkar Mantra chanting and a drone show at the temple, highlighting Somnath’s enduring legacy as a symbol of resilience and civilisational pride. He also held a roadshow in Somnath, where thousands gathered to welcome him.
The Prime Minister’s itinerary includes participation in the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference in Rajkot, and later, high-level talks in Ahmedabad with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who is on his maiden visit to India.
Notable Updates and Major Takeaways
Event: Somnath Swabhiman Parv, commemorating 1,000 years since the temple’s first attack.
Activities: Omkar Mantra chanting, drone show, and roadshow in Somnath.
Tour dates: January 10–12, 2026.
Cultural significance: Somnath temple celebrated as a symbol of resilience and national pride.
Diplomatic engagement: Scheduled meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Ahmedabad.
Regional focus: Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference in Rajkot.
Conclusion
PM Modi’s Gujarat tour blends spiritual heritage, cultural pride, and global diplomacy. Beginning at Somnath, the visit underscores India’s civilisational resilience while also strengthening international ties, making this three-day tour both symbolic and strategic.
Sources: The Hindu Business Line, India.com, India TV News.