Nath city Bareilly is going to witness a historic spiritual moment. Under the nationwide yatra, the relics of the holy Somnath Jyotirlinga, preserved for 1000 years, will enter Uttar Pradesh on 30 March 2026 and this grand yatra will conclude in Bareilly on 10 April. This event is not just a religious festival but is considered a symbol of Indian cultural identity and spiritual victory. -Shweta, VDS State Co-ordinator, UP, Art of Living
Saga of the Millennium (1026 to 2026)-
It is recorded in the pages of history that in 1026 AD, the invader Mahmud Ghaznavi had demolished the original Somnath temple. But the flame of faith did not extinguish. Some sacred parts of the temple were kept secretly by the Agnihotri priests. From generation to generation these relics were worshiped and kept away from the eyes of the world. In 1924, the then Kanchi Shankaracharya had predicted that these relics should be kept safe for a century and when the time comes, they should be handed over to a capable spiritual leadership.
2025: fulfillment of prophecy
In January 2025, Sitharaman Shastri, the last custodian of the tradition, handed over these sacred relics to Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar at the Art of Living Ashram in Bengaluru. These were publicly unveiled on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri 2025. According to devotees, special magnetic and spiritual energy is experienced in these relics. This moment was not just a transfer, but the fulfillment of a 100 years old prophecy and the fruit of 1000 years of sadhana.
Spiritual Bridge: Somnath and the Art of Living
Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and the Art of Living have been working for years to showcase Indian spiritual heritage on the global stage. The basic philosophy of Art of Living ‘Stress-free mind, violence-free society’ is not limited only to modern lifestyle, but is also linked to the restoration of ancient spiritual values. The decision to take the remains of Somnath Jyotirling on a tour to Jyotirlingas across the country is an extension of this vision. This Yatra is not just an organization of any organization, but has become a nationwide campaign of spiritual unity. Gurudev described it as an ‘unbroken light of faith’ and said that it is a symbol of the renaissance of the soul of India.
Triumph of cultural identity
This journey to Somnath is not just a remembrance of the past, but it is a message that no power can destroy the spiritual heritage of India. This story of 1000 years of conservation, 100 years of waiting and today’s revival is a victory of faith, patience and cultural consciousness. This event to be held in Bareilly on 10 April 2026 will be recorded in the golden pages of history. Now there are no earrings, the light of Somnath will shine here.
Why will Bareilly become a historical stop?
After entering Uttar Pradesh on 30 March, the Yatra will reach Bareilly on 10 April 2026. Nath city Bareilly, which is famous for its seven ancient Shiva temples. Will become a witness to this historic occasion. For years, Bareilly was known for earrings, but now this city will be known for welcoming the holy relics of Somnath Jyotirlinga. This event will give new recognition to the religious and cultural importance of Bareilly at the national level.