Somnath: The Indian Air Force’s famed Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) will present a special air show over Somnath Temple on May 11 during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit for the ‘Swabhiman Parv’ celebrations marking 75 years of the inauguration of the reconstructed Somnath Temple.

The aerial display, featuring Hawk Mk-132 aircraft creating tricolour smoke trails in the sky, is expected to be one of the major highlights of the celebrations, blending patriotism with spirituality at the historic temple town.

A five-day Vedic and religious festival has been organised from May 8 to 12 to commemorate the Amrit Mahotsav of the temple inauguration. The main events are scheduled for May 11, when the Prime Minister, who is also chairman of the Somnath Temple Trust, is expected to participate in special rituals, including a Jalabhishek ceremony.

Modi will arrive at the Somnath helipad from Jamnagar by helicopter in the morning. A grand roadshow has also been planned from the temple to Hamirji Circle. Preparations are underway across Somnath, with roads decorated with saffron flags, lighting arrangements, welcome gates and cultural tableaux.

Various social groups, saints, youth organisations and women’s groups are preparing to accord a traditional welcome to the Prime Minister. The roadshow is expected to take place amid drum beats, conch shell sounds and Vedic chants.

Authorities and BJP organisers have undertaken extensive micro-planning to manage the large-scale event and ensure smooth arrangements during the Prime Minister’s visit.

Officials said helicopter flower showers have also been planned over the temple premises and along the roadshow route to create a festive and devotional atmosphere.

The administration has deployed tight security arrangements around the temple town ahead of the high-profile visit.