Prabhas Patan Inscriptions and Somnath’s Sacred Continuity

Prabhas Patan as an Epigraphic Landscape

Prabhas Patan Inscriptions and Somnath’s Sacred Continuity: Prabhas Patan occupies a unique position in India’s sacred geography. The region preserves inscriptions, copper plates, and memorial stones that chronicle centuries of religious activity and royal patronage. These records establish Prabhas Patan as a continuous centre of Sanatan Dharma, despite repeated political disruptions.

Epigraphic findings from the region are not isolated artefacts. They form a coherent historical narrative linking ritual practice, temple administration, and state support across different centuries.

Static GK fact: Prabhas Patan is traditionally identified with Prabhasa Kshetra mentioned in ancient Puranic literature.

Museum Records and Temple Remnants

Several authenticated inscriptions are preserved in the Prabhas Patan Museum, functioning from the ancient Sun Temple complex. These artefacts reflect both prosperity and resilience associated with the Somnath Temple.

A notable inscription is embedded within the wall of the ancient Bhadrakali Temple near Bhadrakali Lane. Its preservation underlines the role of local custodians and state archaeology in safeguarding medieval records.

Static GK Tip: Temple inscriptions often served as legal documents recording grants, lineages, and religious authority.

Bhadrakali Inscription of 1169 CE

The Bhadrakali inscription is dated to 1169 CE, corresponding to Valabhi Samvat 850 and Vikram Samvat 1255. It is a eulogistic record praising Param Pashupata Acharya Shriman Bhavabrihaspati, the spiritual preceptor of Kumarapala.

The inscription is protected by the State Department of Archaeology. Its content provides a continuous historical thread connecting early traditions of Somnath to the medieval period.

Static GK fact: Valabhi Samvat originated in western India and was widely used in Gujarat before declining in the medieval period.

Somnath and the Four Yugas Tradition

The inscription records the traditional belief that Somnath Mahadev was reconstructed in all four yugas. In Satya Yuga, Chandra is said to have built the shrine in gold. In Treta Yuga, Ravana reconstructed it in silver.

In Dvapara Yuga, Shri Krishna rebuilt the temple using wood. During Kali Yuga, Bhimdev Solanki constructed a grand stone temple, later followed by Kumarapala’s reconstruction in 1169 CE.

Static GK Tip: References to yuga-wise reconstructions are common in Shaiva temple traditions across western India.

Solanki Rule and Cultural Flourishing

Under the Solanki dynasty, Prabhas Patan developed into a major religious and cultural hub. Rulers like Siddharaj Jaysinh and Kumarapala promoted temple architecture, Sanskrit learning, and Shaiva traditions.

The Bhadrakali inscription reflects the intellectual climate of this period. It confirms Gujarat’s medieval phase as a Golden Age marked by stability, devotion, and scholarship.

Static GK fact: Kumarapala was known for supporting Jainism while continuing patronage of major Shaiva temples.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

Prabhas Patan Inscriptions and Somnath’s Sacred Continuity: