In a spectacular event attended by 5,000 Hindu seers, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan revealed a towering 108-foot-tall statue of Adi Shankaracharya, the 8th-century spiritual luminary, in the sacred town of Omkareshwar. This grand inauguration marks a significant moment, as it intertwines spirituality, art, and culture while showcasing the rich heritage of India.
The Statue of Oneness
The "Statue of Oneness" is a visionary creation that took shape over six years. It portrays Adi Shankaracharya as a 12-year-old child during his legendary visit to Omkareshwar, home to one of the twelve revered Jyotirlinga shrines, which are considered the holiest abodes of Lord Shiva. This monumental structure, weighing 100 tonnes, stands on a 75-foot platform, constructed from bronze with an alloy composition of 88% copper, 4% zinc, and 8% tin. Its internal framework consists of high-quality steel, ensuring both durability and resilience.
A Cultural Marvel: Advait Lok
Alongside the awe-inspiring statue, Chief Minister Chouhan laid the foundation stone for "Advait Lok," a project worth Rs 2,200 crore. Advait Lok, set to grace Omkareshwar Mandhata Hill, overlooking the serene Narmada River, is designed to house a captivating museum. This cultural centre promises a rich experience with features such as a 3D hologram projection gallery, nine exhibition galleries, an indoor wide-screen theatre, and an enlightening cultural boat ride named "Advaita Narmada Vihar," guiding visitors through the profound teachings of Adi Shankaracharya.
From Vision to Reality
Renowned painter Vasudeo Kamath's visionary artwork served as the inspiration for this remarkable statue. Kamath's journey took him to the birthplace of Adi Shankaracharya in Kerala's Kalady, where he meticulously studied the nuances of the era, including clothing styles, architectural designs, and the environment. After Kamath's painting was approved in 2018, sculptor Bhagwan Rampure took charge, working closely with Kamath and consulting with priests from various parts of India. Unlike previous statues in the Mahakal Lok Corridor that faced damage due to high winds, the "Statue of Oneness" stands resolute. Crafted from metal, it boasts exceptional strength and sturdiness. Sculptor Bhagwan Rampure supervised the meticulous metal casting process in China's Nanchang City, ensuring the statue's durability against the test of time.
Embracing Global Collaboration
The Adi Shankaracharya statue project exemplifies global collaboration, with different elements sourced from various corners of the world. While designed by an Indian team, the statue's components were assembled from different parts of China and other international sources. This monumental endeavour not only celebrates spirituality but also promises to boost tourism in the region, forming an integral part of a burgeoning tourism circuit, alongside Ujjain, Maheshwar, and Mandu. The completion of the entire project is expected by 2026, promising to attract a substantial footfall of over 1.5 to 2 lakh visitors daily. This extraordinary feat serves as a testament to India's rich cultural heritage, blending tradition with modernity and spirituality with artistic brilliance.
© Copyright 2023. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.
