Relevance: GS I (Indian Heritage & Culture – Temple Architecture, Sources of History) | Source: PIB

1. Context

A significant inscription dating back to 1169 CE found in the Bhadrakali Temple (Prabhas Patan, Gujarat) has gained attention. It serves as a vital historical record detailing the evolution of the famous Somnath Temple and the patronage of the Solanki Dynasty.

2. The Inscription: Myth Meets History

Written by Bhavabrihaspati, a spiritual guru (Pashupata Acharya) and preceptor to the Solanki King Kumarapala, the inscription uniquely categorizes the temple’s history based on the materials used across the four Yugas:

• Satya Yuga: Built of Gold by the Moon God (Soma).
• Treta Yuga: Built of Silver by Ravana.
• Dvapara Yuga: Built of Wood by Shri Krishna.
• Kali Yuga: Built of Stone by King Bhimdev Solanki.

3. Historical Reality (The Solanki Era)

While the Gold/Silver accounts are legendary, the inscription confirms critical historical facts:

• Transition to Stone: It corroborates that Bhimdev I (Solanki ruler) rebuilt the temple in stone, likely following the destruction by Mahmud of Ghazni (1026 CE).
• Renovation: It records that King Kumarapala renovated the temple (the “Fifth Temple”) in 1169 CE.
• Religious Landscape: The prominence of the author (Bhavabrihaspati) highlights the dominance of the Pashupata Sect of Shaivism in 12th-century Gujarat.

UPSC Value Box

Q. With reference to the history of temple architecture in ancient India, consider the following statements regarding the Somnath Temple:

1. Ancient inscriptions suggest that the temple was originally built of wood before being reconstructed in stone.
2. The Solanki king Bhimdev I is historically associated with the reconstruction of the stone temple at Somnath.
3. The temple is historically associated with the Pashupata sect of Shaivism.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: (d)