Sri Sri Ravi Shankar to Consecrate Lost Parts of Somnath Jyotirlinga on Mahashivratri After 1000 Years

New Delhi: In a historic movement, the sacred Somnath Jyotirlinga, which was desecrated and destroyed nearly a thousand years ago by  Mahmud of Ghazni, is set to be revealed for the first time on the occasion of Mahashivratri 2025 (February 26, Wednesday) under the guidance of renowned spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

The piece of Jyotirlinga was hidden for generations, which was rediscovered and is being consecrated once again. The revival of the Jyotirlinga marks a sacred tale of the preservation and devotion of India's Sanatan Dharma and Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has been chosen to facilitate the consecration.

Also Read | The Battle Story of Somnath: Anup Thapa announces pan India film on Somnath temple raid

The Somnath Mandir, one of the holiest shrines in Sanatan Dharma and the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas, has faced repeated destruction throughout our history.

In 1024 CE, Mahmud of Ghazni’s invasion resulted in the slaughter of tens of thousands of devotees who had gathered to protect the temple. The remarkable 3-foot Shivalinga was destroyed, and the pieces were desecrated at the steps of the Jama Masjid in Ghazni, Afghanistan.

Despite the temple’s repeated reconstruction by various rulers, the remnants of the original Jyotirlinga remained lost for centuries. However, despite the devastation, a courageous group of Agnihotri priests managed to gather the remnants of the Linga, preserving them through the generations. Among these priests, one family skillfully crafted the broken pieces into a new Shiva Linga, which they worshipped discreetly.

Later in 1924, the Shankaracharya at that time instructed the family to conceal the Linga for a century while continuing their private worship.

Also Read | Historical Journey of a 12 Jyotirlinga Ram Katha Yatra with Morari Bapu Culminates in Talgajarda, Gujarat

Now, almost a hundred years later, the current Shankaracharya has advised the family to present the Linga to Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

Sitaram Shastry, a priest from the lineage of those who safeguarded the Lingam pieces, has been pivotal in this endeavour.

"With the guidance of the current Shankaracharya, I had been sent to meet Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in Bangalore. He has been chosen to facilitate this great task (of consecrating the Lingam in Somnath)," Shastry said.

Having been the custodian of the Lingam for the past 21 years, Shastry has played a vital role in preserving this piece of history.

The consecration of the Somnath Shivling, after centuries, marks a historic milestone, symbolising the revival of one of Hinduism's most venerated icons. Despite the obliteration of the temple and the subsequent invasions, Somnath has continued to inspire devotion. This entire narrative serves as a testament to the strength of faith and the commitment of those dedicated to preserving India’s rich cultural legacy.