UPSC Prelims 2022 Question:

The Prime Minister recently inaugurated the new Circuit House near Somnath Temple at Veraval. Which of the following statements are correct regarding Somnath Temple?

1. Somnath Temple is one of the Jyotirlinga shrines.
2. A description of Somnath Temple was given by Al-Biruni.
3. Pran Pratishtha of Somnath Temple (installation of the present day temple) was done by President S. Radhakrishnan.
   
   

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Explanation: 

• • Shree Somnath is first among the twelve Aadi Jyotirlings of India. It has a strategic location on the western coast of India. Somnath temple is believed to be fist among the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. So, statement 1 is correct.
    
    
  • Al Biruni, an 11th century Arab traveller described the temple and mentioned about its plunder and destruction. So, statement 2 is correct.
    
    

• The Pran-Pratistha at the existing temple was done on 11th May 1951 by then President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad. So, statement 3 is not incorrect.
  
  

Therefore, option (1) is the correct answer.

Subject: History|Architecture and Sculptures