President Droupadi Murmu Visited Gujarat On October 10, 2025, Offering Prayers At The Sacred Somnath Temple And Touring The Gir National Park. Her Visit Highlighted India’s Cultural Heritage And Environmental Richness, While Also Including A Heartfelt Interaction With Local Tribal Communities In The Sasan-Gir Region.
A spiritual start at Somnath Temple
President Droupadi Murmu began her three-day Gujarat visit with a solemn prayer at the revered Somnath Mahadev Temple in Gir Somnath district. The temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, holds immense religious significance. During her visit, the President performed the ‘Someshwar Mahapuja’ and offered holy Ganga water to the deity amid the chanting of Vedic mantras. She also paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at his statue on the temple premises, acknowledging his pivotal role in the temple’s post-independence reconstruction.
Exploring India’s wildlife heritage
Following her spiritual engagement, President Murmu traveled to the Gir National Park in Junagadh district. Known as the last natural habitat of the Asiatic lion, the park was specially opened a week ahead of its usual post-monsoon schedule to accommodate her visit. The President embarked on a safari through the lush, rejuvenated forest landscape, experiencing the region’s unique biodiversity firsthand.
Connecting with tribal communities
In addition to her official engagements, President Murmu took time to meet with local tribal residents in Sasan-Gir. She emphasized the importance of education, sustainable livelihoods, and preserving cultural identity. Her interaction underscored the government’s commitment to inclusive development and the empowerment of indigenous communities.
Key moments from the visit
- President Murmu performed aarti and Someshwar Mahapuja at Somnath Temple.
- She offered holy Ganga water and paid homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
- The Gir National Park was reopened early for her visit on October 10–11, 2025.
- She took a safari tour through the park’s post-monsoon greenery.
- The President engaged with tribal communities, encouraging education and development.
- Her visit highlighted India’s spiritual and ecological treasures.
A journey of reverence and responsibility
President Murmu’s visit to Gujarat was a blend of devotion, environmental appreciation, and social outreach. It not only celebrated India’s cultural and natural heritage but also reinforced the importance of inclusive growth and conservation efforts.
Sources: The Hindu, MSN, President of India (official website), Gir National Park News