Somnath Temple – History, Reconstruction, Maru-Gurjara Architecture

Somnath Temple, located at Prabhas Patan in Gujarat, is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and a symbol of resilience. Learn its history, repeated reconstruction, Maru-Gurjara architecture, astronomical features, and UPSC important facts.

Table of Contents

Context

2026 marks 75 years of reconstruction (1951), highlighting Somnath’s continuity from destruction to renewal.

About Somnath Temple

Location: At Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Gujarat on Arabian Sea coast at Triveni Sangam (Kapila, Hiran, Sarasvati rivers)
Historical References: Mentioned in ancient texts and accounts Kalidasa (Raghuvamsa, 5th century), Al-Biruni (11th century) and Amir Khusrau (Delhi Sultanate period)
Attacks & Destruction: Destroyed multiple times including: 1026 (by Mahmud of Ghazni)during the reign of Bhima I , 14th century(by Delhi Sultanate invasions and 1706 (Under Aurangzeb)
Reconstruction History
- 18th century: Rebuilt by Ahilyabai Holkar (ensured continuity of worship)
- Post-independence: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel initiated reconstruction in 1947 and was inaugurated in 1951 by Dr. Rajendra Prasad.
Architecture: Built in Maru-Gurjara (Solanki/Chalukyan) style with Kailash Mahameru Prasad layout comprising:
- Garbhagriha (sanctum)
- Sabhamandap (assembly hall)
- Nrityamandap (dance hall)
About Maru-Gurjara Architecture
- Origin: Flourished under Solanki rulers in Gujarat and Rajasthan, combining Māru (Mewar), Māha Gurjara and Saurashtra styles.
- Structural Layout: Features garbhagriha connected to mandapa internally and externally
- Key Features:
  - Plain Exterior Walls: Limited carvings (focus on structure)
  - Jharokha: Projecting stone balcony (ventilation and aesthetics).
  - Chhatri: Dome-shaped pavilion (memorial or decorative element).
  - Jaali: Perforated stone screens (light and ventilation control).Courtyard-based planning (micro-climate regulation).
- Water Architecture
Surya Kund: Step tank with small shrines (unique feature)
Baoli: Stepwell (water access)
Johad: Rainwater harvesting (groundwater recharge)
- Astronomical Feature: East-facing temples aligned for sunlight entry into sanctum during equinox (astronomical precision).

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