The Somnath Swabhiman Festival was observed at Lingaraj Peeth, celebrating 75 years of the Somnath temple’s restoration.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi joined devotees and highlighted the temple’s role as a sentinel of India’s cultural resilience.
Majhi recalled Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s leadership in rebuilding Somnath in 1951, calling it the beginning of India’s cultural resurgence.
He drew parallels between Somnath in the west and Lingaraj in the east, symbolising the strength and continuity of heritage.
The Chief Minister emphasised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision in reviving cultural pride and resilience despite centuries of invasions.
He announced major development projects, including Rs 330 crore for Ekamra Kshetra’s transformation and Rs 1000 crore for the Shree Jagannath Museum.
He also promoted the “Orange Economy,” aimed at boosting culture‑driven tourism and local employment.
Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari, MP Aparajita Sarangi, MLA Babu Singh, Culture Secretary Dr Vijay Ketan Upadhyay, and Khordha Collector Amrit Rituraj were present.
Majhi urged Odias to unite in building a prosperous Odisha and a developed India, inspired by Patel’s courage and Modi’s vision.
