Lord Shiva is worshipped in 12 of the grandest and oldest temples, each known as a “Jyotirlinga.
” These sacred shrines are spread across different states and cities in India. One such Jyotirlinga is Omkareshwar, located in Madhya Pradesh.
On September 21, 2023, Madhya Pradesh’s Chief Minister, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, unveiled a 108-foot-tall idol of Adi Shankaracharya, crafted from multiple metals,
at the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga temple. This marks the beginning of the construction of an “Ekattma Dham” (unity abode) in Omkareshwar, following the footsteps of Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain.
The Statue of Unity and Advaita Lok Museum
Accompanying the 108-foot-tall “Statue of Unity” is the establishment of the “Advaita Lok” museum and the International Advait Vedanta Institute.
This museum will depict Adi Shankaracharya in his youthful form within the multi-metal statue.
Alongside the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga pilgrimage, visitors will also glimpse a representation of Adi Shankaracharya’s 12-year-old childhood.
Where Omkareshwar is Located
Among the Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, Omkareshwar is situated in the Khargone district of Madhya Pradesh.
The temple is nestled on the island of Mandhata in the Narmada River. It is believed that the lingam (iconic representation of Lord Shiva) at Omkareshwar is not sculpted by human hands but is a naturally occurring one.
This sacred lingam remains submerged in water at all times. Omkareshwar temple is located on the right bank of the Narmada, while the left bank houses Mamleshwar.
The Legend of Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga
The installation of the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga took place after intense penance to Lord Shiva in the Vindhya mountains.
The Vindhya region sculpted a divine idol of Lord Shiva and meditated for six months. Impressed by this devotion, Lord Shiva granted a boon of wisdom and accomplishment for the task.
During this period, all the deities and sages worshiped Lord Shiva and requested Him to make this place His abode.
Pleased with their devotion, Lord Shiva divided the lingam into two forms – one known as Omkareshwar and the other as Amaleshwar or Parameeshwar.
How to Reach Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga
If you’re traveling by air, the nearest airport to Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is the Indore Airport, which is approximately 77 kilometers away.
From there, you can reach the temple by bus or taxi. Alternatively, the Ujjain Airport is about 133 kilometers away, making it convenient to visit the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga during your journey.
For those traveling by train, the Omkareshwar Road Railway Station is the closest to the temple, situated on the Ratlam-Indore-Khandwa line, just 12 kilometers from the temple.
You can also reach Omkareshwar by road, with state transport buses providing easy access.
Sightseeing Places Near Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga
Close to this Jyotirlinga, you can explore other Shiva shrines like Andhakeshwar, Jhukmeshwar, and Navgraheshwar.
Additionally, there are significant philosophical sites like Avimukteshwar, Mahatma Daria Nath’s seat, Shri Batuk Bhairav, Mangaleshwar, Nagchandreshwar, Dattatreya, and Kala-Gaura Bhairav for you to visit during your pilgrimage.
