World · India Bureau
Indian Runner Pledges Marathon Pilgrimage to All 12 Sacred Shiva Temples
A 19-year-old from India has embarked on an ambitious running quest to visit all 12 jyotirlingas across the country, covering approximately 50 kilometers daily. The young devotee undertook the pledge after his mother recovered from a serious illness.
LSN India ·
Monu Meturbaala, 19, has vowed to complete a running pilgrimage to each of India's 12 sacred jyotirlingas—ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The endeavor emerged from a personal devotion after his mother's health deteriorated, prompting him to seek divine intervention for her recovery.
According to reports, when his mother's condition improved, Meturbaala resolved to honor his spiritual commitment by running to each of the revered temples across the country. The pilgrimage requires him to maintain a grueling daily running schedule of approximately 50 kilometers as he traverses India's vast geography.
So far, Meturbaala has successfully completed darshan—ritualistic worship visits—at five of the twelve jyotirlingas. The jyotirlingas, scattered across different states, include temples at Somnath, Mallikarjuna, Mahakaleshwar, Omkareshwar, Kedarnath, and others, making the pilgrimage a significant physical and spiritual undertaking.
His dedication has drawn attention as an example of devotional commitment, combining rigorous athletic endurance with religious observance. The remaining journey to visit the remaining seven temples presents substantial challenges, though the young runner appears determined to complete his vow.