Somnath, a famous pilgrimage site in Gujarat, is set to host a special spiritual programme called ‘Vande Somnath’ every Monday during the holy month of Shravan. This event will showcase different forms of Lord Shiva, including the unique Nataraj form, and will be held at three various locations within the Somnath temple complex.
The ‘Vande Somnath’ programme is a collaborative effort by the Gujarat Tourism Department, the Somnath Trust, and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts. It aims to present classical and cultural expressions of spirituality through performances by renowned artists and dancers. The initiative comes under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Tourism Minister Mulubhai Bera.
Every Monday in Shravan, which falls on July 14, 21, 28, and August 4, 11, and 18 in 2025, the programme will celebrate the artistic and spiritual heritage of the temple. Somnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India and is known for its historical significance and architectural beauty. The temple not only serves as a religious site but also as a cultural hub where music and dance are used to worship Lord Shiva.
Pilgrims from across the country visit Somnath during this auspicious month, making it a busy time for the temple. To facilitate travel, the Gujarat State Transport has introduced special AC Volvo buses from Rani P, Ahmedabad, to Somnath. This daily service departs at 6:00 AM and reaches Somnath by 4:00 PM. The round trip ticket prices are set at Rs. 4,000 for one person and Rs. 7,050 for two, which includes meals, hotel accommodation, and a guided tour.
The travel package also features visits to local attractions like the Light and Sound Show, the Triveni Sangam Aarti, and other significant sites. This initiative aims to enhance the experience for visitors and make the journey to the sacred site more convenient.
The ‘Vande Somnath’ programme represents a unique opportunity to experience the divine through art and culture. It will be held against the backdrop of the Somnath temple, which is surrounded by natural beauty and holds a deep spiritual significance for devotees.
This new initiative is expected to attract more visitors to the region, not only for religious reasons but also for cultural enrichment. The efforts of the Gujarat government to promote tourism in this manner will likely lead to increased interest in the arts and heritage of the area, reinforcing Somnath’s status as a vital cultural location in India. Visitors are encouraged to participate and witness the blend of spirituality and artistic expression at the ‘Vande Somnath’ programme every Monday during Shravan.
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