Statue of Oneness: A Symbol of Unity and India’s Spiritual Heritage
Madhya Pradesh’s Chief Minister, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, unveiled the impressive Statue of Oneness, standing at a towering 108 feet in the temple town of Omkareshwar. This monumental statue pays tribute to the revered Hindu sage, Adi Shankaracharya, a great philosopher and spiritual figure known for his profound contributions to Hinduism. Adi Shankaracharya’s teachings, particularly his explanation of the ‘Brahma Sutra Bhasya,’ which focuses on the concept of Oneness, inspired the creation of this unique statue. It stands on a 54-foot-high pedestal atop Mandhata hill beside the Narmada River and depicts Adi Shankaracharya in a walking posture, making it a one-of-a-kind worldwide.
The ‘Ekatmata Ki Pratima’ or ‘Statue of Oneness’ project was undertaken by the Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation and Acharya Shankar Sanskritik Ekta Nyas. It was designed to endure extreme weather conditions, including strong winds and earthquakes, with an estimated lifespan of approximately 500 years. This monumental statue is part of a larger initiative worth over 2,100 crore rupees, showcasing India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage while promoting the idea of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” or “The world is one family,” as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Adi Shankaracharya’s remarkable journey from Kerala to Omkareshwar, spanning over 1600 kilometers through forests, is a significant part of history. His teachings played a crucial role in unifying various spiritual sects and elements within India’s cultural landscape during the 9th century. The inauguration of the statue was postponed by three days due to heavy rains but ultimately took place on September 21, 2023, marking a momentous celebration of India’s diverse spiritual traditions and the enduring legacy of Adi Shankaracharya. Additionally, there are plans for a foundation-laying ceremony for Advait Lok, a corridor at the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, along with the possibility of a museum dedicated to Adi Shankaracharya’s life in the vicinity.
