Patna:
In an extraordinary demonstration of filial devotion and endurance, a 19-year-old youth from Bihar is running across India to fulfill a solemn vow made when his mother was critically ill. Monu Meturbala, hailing from Araria district, had prayed to Lord Shiva for her recovery, promising to undertake a pilgrimage to all 12 Jyotirlingas across the country if she regained her health.
True to his word, once his mother began recovering, Monu set out on foot on March 15 this year, choosing to run rather than rely on vehicles to visit the revered shrines.
8,000 Kilometers Covered Across 5 Jyotirlingas:
Since embarking on his spiritual trek, Monu has reportedly covered nearly 8,000 kilometers, maintaining a rigorous pace of approximately 50 kilometers each day.
To date, he has completed visits to five of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas, with seven more remaining on his itinerary. Despite varying terrains, adverse weather conditions, and physical exhaustion, he continues his demanding daily run, documenting his journey and milestones on his Instagram handle,
@monu_betaurabala.Echoes of Modern-Day 'Shravan Kumar':
Monu's resolve has earned widespread admiration on social media, drawing frequent comparisons to Shravan Kumar—the legendary mythological figure celebrated in Indian tradition for his selfless devotion to his parents.
The grueling pilgrimage, which spans the length and breadth of India—from Kedarnath in Uttarakhand and Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu to Somnath in Gujarat and Kashi Vishwanath in Uttar Pradesh—stands as a rare blend of deep personal commitment, religious faith, and physical grit.
