Somnath Temple: A Saga of Resilience Against Repeated Invasions and Loot

• The Somnath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, symbolizes Hindu faith and Indian civilization, repeatedly plundered by Muslim invaders.
• Mahmud of Ghazni led the first major foreign invasion in the 11th century, demolishing the temple and looting immense wealth, an event considered a major assault on Indian civilization.
• Mahmud of Ghazni attacked India 17 times over 32 years, driven by religious fanaticism and the desire to plunder wealth from temples, also enslaving thousands.
• The temple was defended by Brahmins and Shiva devotees, who bravely resisted Mahmud's army, leading to a massacre of over 70,000 people.
• Despite repeated destruction by invaders like Alauddin Khalji, Zafar Khan, Ahmed Shah, Mahmud Begada, and Aurangzeb, the temple was rebuilt each time, symbolizing enduring faith and resilience.

Why It Matters: The Somnath Temple stands as an unwavering symbol of Indian faith and resilience against centuries of destruction.