PM Modi at Somnath: ‘No Power in the World Can Make India Bow’, Recalls Pokhran Nuclear Tests and Sanctions

Somnath, Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday delivered a strong message of national pride and self-confidence while addressing the Somnath Amrut Mahotsav celebrations, marking 75 years since the inauguration of the reconstructed Somnath Temple.

Speaking before a large gathering, Modi said India has repeatedly shown the world that it will never bend under external pressure, recalling the country’s bold decision to conduct the Pokhran nuclear tests in 1998 despite intense international opposition.

The Prime Minister said the nuclear tests carried out under the leadership of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee reflected India’s determination to protect its national interests, regardless of global pressure or economic consequences.

Recalling the events that followed the Pokhran-II tests in May 1998, Modi said several powerful nations had attempted to isolate India diplomatically and economically by imposing sanctions.

However, he noted that the Vajpayee government stood firm and refused to compromise on the country’s sovereignty and security.

“At that time, the entire world was putting pressure on India. Sanctions were imposed, and there were attempts to isolate us internationally.

But under the leadership of Atal ji, the BJP government made it clear that the nation comes first,” Modi said.

He added that India’s response during that period proved the strength of the country’s political will and national character.

“No power in the world can force India to bow down or yield to pressure,” the Prime Minister declared, drawing loud applause from the audience.

Modi used the occasion not only to speak about India’s strategic strength but also to underline what he described as the country’s civilisational resilience.

Referring to the history of the Somnath Temple, he said the shrine symbolises India’s enduring spirit because it was rebuilt repeatedly despite being destroyed multiple times by invaders over centuries.

According to the Prime Minister, the reconstruction of Somnath after Independence represented far more than the rebuilding of a temple.

He said it reflected the restoration of India’s self-respect, cultural identity,y and confidence as a civilisation that had survived countless challenges throughout history.

“The story of Somnath is not just about a temple. It is about the spirit of India that rises again and again despite every attack,” Modi said.

The Prime Minister also criticised what he called “appeasement politics,” alleging that such political thinking had often obstructed issues linked to national pride and cultural heritage.

Without naming any political party directly, Modi drew parallels between earlier opposition to the reconstruction of Somnath and resistance faced during the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

He suggested that there had always been forces uncomfortable with the revival of symbols connected to India’s civilisational identity, but added that the country was now moving forward with renewed confidence and cultural awareness.

During the event, Modi also released a commemorative postage stamp dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the reconstructed Somnath Temple.

The celebration was attended by religious leaders, public representatives, es and devotees from different parts of the country.

The Prime Minister said the Somnath Temple continues to inspire generations by reminding the nation of its strength, unity, and ability to overcome adversity.

He added that modern India is progressing with the same spirit of determination that helped rebuild Somnath and enabled the country to take bold decisions like the Pokhran nuclear tests despite global pressure.