Question 1

Somnath Temple is considered the first among how many Jyotirlingas in India?

Accepted Answer

12. Somnath Temple is regarded as the first and foremost among the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India. The 12 Jyotirlingas are sacred shrines where Shiva is worshipped in the form of a column of light. Somnath is located in Prabhas Patan in the Gir Somnath district of Gujarat.

Question 2

How many times did Mahmud of Ghazni attack and loot the Somnath Temple?

Accepted Answer

Once. Mahmud of Ghazni attacked and destroyed the Somnath Temple in 1025 CE, looting its enormous wealth. This single attack is one of the most recorded events in medieval Indian history. The temple was subsequently rebuilt several times after this attack.

Question 3

Who was primarily responsible for the reconstruction of Somnath Temple after Indian independence?

Accepted Answer

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, was the driving force behind the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple after independence. He initiated the project in 1947 and pledged government funds for the rebuilding. The temple was consecrated in 1951 by President Rajendra Prasad.

Question 4

In which year was the current Somnath Temple consecrated after its reconstruction?

Accepted Answer

1951. The current Somnath Temple was consecrated on May 11, 1951, by President Dr. Rajendra Prasad. The temple was rebuilt under the initiative of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and K.M. Munshi after centuries of destruction. It stands as a symbol of India's cultural and religious revival.

Question 5

Rani ki Vav (Queen's Stepwell) in Patan was built in which century?

Accepted Answer

11th century. Rani ki Vav was built in the 11th century, around 1063 CE, during the Solanki period of Gujarat. It was constructed by Queen Udayamati in memory of her husband King Bhimdev I of the Chaulukya dynasty. The stepwell is renowned for its intricate carvings and seven-storey structure.

Heritage Sites & Temples — Set 1