Bihar Teen Completes 8,000 km Journey to 12 Jyotirlingas
Monu Meturbala embarks on a spiritual journey after his mother's recovery, covering significant distances across India.
Monu Meturbala has visited six Jyotirlingas so far, aiming to complete all twelve.
He began his journey on March 15 from Patna after promising to run to the shrines if his mother recovered.
Monu runs approximately 50 km daily, supported by two companions along the way.
Nineteen-year-old Monu Meturbala from Araria, Bihar, has embarked on an extraordinary pilgrimage to visit all twelve Jyotirlingas across India. This journey began on March 15, motivated by a vow he made during his mother's illness. After his mother, Lalti Devi, recovered from a serious health issue, Monu set out from Patna, determined to fulfill his promise.
The journey is not just a physical challenge but also a testament to Monu's devotion. His mother fell ill after a fish bone lodged in her throat, prompting the family to seek medical help. In a moment of prayer, Monu vowed to visit the sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva if she recovered. His family, particularly his elder brother Sonu Kumar, recalls the moment at Baba Siddheshwar Nath Temple in Jehanabad when Monu made this promise.
Since starting his journey, Monu has covered approximately 8,000 kilometers and has already visited six Jyotirlingas. Currently in Maharashtra, he aims to run around 50 kilometers each day. His family expresses pride in his determination, highlighting that this journey reflects not only his physical endurance but also his deep attachment to family values and commitment to honoring his vow.
Monu's life before this pilgrimage was filled with sports and small jobs to support his family. He played cricket and helped with various tasks, including selling snacks and assisting his father, an electrician. Despite their limited financial resources, Monu's family provided him with some funds for the journey, although he is now managing expenses on his own. The pilgrimage requires careful planning for food, water, rest, and accommodation, adding to the complexity of his undertaking.
As he continues his journey, Monu's story resonates with the traditional Indian tale of Shravan Kumar, symbolizing devotion to one's parents. The twelve Jyotirlingas are among the most revered pilgrimage sites in India, and many devotees aspire to visit them all. Monu's mother expresses immense pride in her son's commitment to his promise, eagerly awaiting his safe return after he completes this remarkable pilgrimage.
