ITANAGAR,
Arunachal Pradesh joined the rest of the nation in commemorating the 75th anniversary of the reconstruction and inauguration of the historic Somnath Temple with “Somnath Swabhiman Parv” celebrations organised across multiple districts on Monday.
In Lohit district, the district administration organised the programme at Shiv Mandir, Tezu, with religious fervour and patriotic spirit.
The celebration began with a Kalash Yatra, followed by Vedic chanting, bhajans and milk offerings to Lord Shiva. A large number of devotees, officials and community members participated in the rituals and cultural programme.
Bazaar Secretary Picaso Chai, who attended as chief guest, highlighted the significance of the occasion and spoke on self-reliance, civilisational continuity and preservation of cultural heritage.
Sub-Divisional Officer Sotailum Bellai said the programme symbolised the resilience, faith and unity of the nation through centuries of challenges.
District Arts & Culture Officer Bitchey Rijiju said the event marked two important milestones — 1,000 years since the first recorded major invasion of the Somnath Temple and 75 years since its reconstruction after Independence.
Religious narratives associated with the temple were presented by Pandi Bhagwan Dev, highlighting its spiritual significance in Indian civilisation.
A live telecast of the Prime Minister’s address was also organised, drawing active participation from devotees. The programme concluded with prayers and distribution of prasad, promoting communal harmony and cultural awareness.
In East Siang district, the Department of Art & Culture in collaboration with the Dangoria Baba Mandir Committee organised a grand celebration at Dangoria Baba Shiv Mandir, Pasighat.
The programme began with a Kalash Yatra involving over 100 devotees from East Siang and neighbouring districts, who carried holy water from the Siang River for offering at the Shiva Lingam.
Chief Councillor of Pasighat Municipal Council (PMC) Tagom Padung attended as chief guest along with district officials, committee members and devotees.
A live screening of the Prime Minister’s address from Somnath Temple, Gujarat, was a key highlight of the programme.
The event concluded with prayers for peace, prosperity and communal harmony.
In West Kameng district, the 75th anniversary of the Somnath Temple reconstruction was celebrated at Nag Mandir, Singchung, in a programme organised by the District Administration in collaboration with Border Roads Organisation (BRO) 91 Road Construction Company, Nag Mandir Bazaar Committee and local devotees.
The celebration began with traditional prayers led by temple priests, followed by the National Anthem and a group photograph session involving officials, BRO personnel and community members.
Speakers from the Nag Mandir Bazaar Committee and BRO highlighted the importance of cultural preservation and cooperation between civil society and security forces.
The district administration appreciated the joint efforts and described the event as a strong example of community–administration partnership.
In Lower Siang district, the Somnath Swabhiman Parv was celebrated at the Shivalaya of Malinithan Temple complex.
The programme featured Panchamrit Snan Puja, Aarti, mantra chanting, bhajans and prasad distribution.
Resource person Buru Taki explained the significance of the observance and its national relevance.
Chief guest Mokar Riba led the puja and stressed the importance of preserving indigenous cultural heritage.
“The Parv teaches us to rise again after every hardship with resilience and determination,” he said.
A live telecast of the Prime Minister’s address was also arranged. Earlier, nodal officer Augusti Jamoh welcomed the participants and highlighted the historical importance of the occasion.
Preparations for the event included cleaning of the temple premises by the district administration, Malinithan Vikash Parishad and local women volunteers. (DIPR)
