On Thursday 21st September, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan revealed a grand 108-foot-tall statue honouring the revered 8th-century spiritual luminary, Adi Shankaracharya. The awe-inspiring statue stands tall in Omkareshwar town, symbolizing the spiritual and cultural heritage of the region. The unveiling of this monumental structure marks a significant moment, paying homage to the enduring influence of Adi Shankaracharya and his teachings in the state.
Shivraj Singh Chouhan posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) where he was seen offering prayers at the inauguration site. In the tweet, he expressed the profound significance he found in the spiritual energy that resides in the revered feet of Acharya Shankar. He emphasized the auspiciousness associated with Advaita, stating that the positive and benevolent impact it holds transcends for the betterment of the entire world. It was a touching moment that resonated with the spiritual essence of the event and highlighted the deeply rooted beliefs that inspired the unveiling of the remarkable statue.
Situated on the scenic banks of the Narmada River, Omkareshwar is a charming location about 80 km from the bustling city of Indore. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan recently acknowledged the deep-rooted cultural significance of Omkareshwar, focusing on the profound philosophy of Advaita Vedanta propagated by Adi Shankaracharya ji. Chouhan highlighted Shankaracharya's vision, recognizing the universal existence of one Brahma in all living beings. He commended this philosophy as a remarkable gift that unified India with a common thread of wisdom and spiritual oneness across generations.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, expressed immense pride in the fact that the extraordinary spiritual figure, Adi Shankaracharya ji, gained enlightenment on the soil of Madhya Pradesh. He emphasized how Shankaracharya's wisdom had profoundly influenced the nation, instilling a divine sense of unity. Chouhan envisioned that in the future, this distinctive monument honouring Shankaracharya would attract generations, allowing them to connect with the profound contributions of this revered figure through the ages. It's a sentiment that envisions the timeless impact and educational value of the statue for generations to come.
During a discussion on Wednesday, the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister underlined the significant role of Adi Guru Shankaracharya in fostering cultural unity throughout the country and disseminating the profound teachings of the Vedas to the general populace. He shed light on Shankaracharya's initiative of establishing four monasteries in different corners of India, emphasizing how this strategic move played a crucial role in preserving and promoting cultural unity. The Chief Minister attributed India's present-day unity to the enduring impact of these monasteries, showcasing their instrumental role in bringing the nation together on a cultural and spiritual front.
This statue in Omkareshwar represents the latest addition to a series of significant statues constructed by the Indian government. Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier unveiled the Statue of Equality on the outskirts of Hyderabad, dedicated to the 11th-century Bhakti Saint Sri Ramanujacharya on his 1,000th birth anniversary. Another prominent unveiling was the Statue of Unity in Gujarat's Kevadia back in 2018, honouring the memory of former Deputy Prime Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. These statues stand as powerful tributes, each commemorating iconic figures and contributing to India's rich cultural tapestry.
