Somnath Swabhiman Parba observed across Odisha; 1,000 lamps lit at Lingaraj Temple

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Odisha observed Somnath Swabhiman Parba on Saturday to mark 1,000 years since the first attack on Gujarat’s Somnath Temple. The occasion was commemorated with religious rituals, prayers and the lighting of lamps at Lord Shiva shrines across the state.

As part of the observance, special worship and lamp-lighting ceremonies were organised at various Shiva peethas. The party said the programme was aimed at remembering the historical significance of the Somnath Temple.

Thousand Lamps Lit at Lingaraj Temple

In Bhubaneswar, the state BJP organised a major event outside the Lingaraj Temple, where 1,000 lamps were lit to mark the occasion. The ceremonial lighting symbolised remembrance, resilience and reverence linked to the legacy of the Somnath Temple.

Several senior BJP leaders participated in the programme, including Odisha BJP president Manmohan Samal, Odisha Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling, and Ekamra MLA Babu Singh. The leaders jointly lit the lamps and took part in the observance.

"On January 8, 9 and 10, the completion of 1,000 years is being observed. Today is Swabhiman Parba, and as directed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this auspicious programme is being organised at every Shiva peetha. This Sangharsh Yatra is dedicated to those who sacrificed their lives for the nation and to their significant contributions. The day serves as a reminder of the freedom fighters and their extraordinary service,” said Odisha BJP president Manmohan Samal.

The observance concluded with prayers and lamp-lighting, reinforcing the message of remembrance, spiritual continuity and respect for India’s ancient temple heritage.