Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav stated that the state government is developing the 108-feet tall statue of Adi Guru Shankaracharya and his diksha sthali on Omkar Parvat as Ekatma Dham, which is being completed in a phased manner. He said that Adi Guru Shankaracharya accomplished many great works in his lifetime. His spiritual consciousness connects us with the ancient scriptural tradition.
“To make India a powerful nation, knowledge, spirituality, scriptures, and weaponry—all dimensions are essential,” said Dr. Yadav. “Our saints and ascetics have sacrificed their lives for the establishment of Dharma and have remarkably blended the traditions of both spiritual knowledge (shastra) and physical strength (shastra).”
He added that the state government has initiated a liquor ban in religious cities, replacing liquor shops with milk booths. Milk production is being promoted through the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Kamdhenu Yojana. He further said that cultural festivals and traditional celebrations will now be organized with community participation. To strengthen the connection with Sanatan culture and promote social events, Gita Bhavans are being constructed in all urban local bodies across the state.
Dr. Yadav addressed the concluding ceremony of the five-day 'Ekatma Parv', organised on the occasion of Shankar Prakatotsav by the Acharya Shankar Cultural Unity Trust and the Department of Culture at Ekatma Dham, Omkareshwar. Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avdheshanand Giri, Head of Juna Peeth, presided over the event.
On the occasion, Dr. Yadav was welcomed with Vedic chanting by Maharshi Sandipani Veda Vidya Peeth. The Chief Minister offered ahuti (ritual offering) at the holy yagya-vedi of the Yagya Shala at Ekatma Dham and circumambulated the sacred fire, praying for the happiness, prosperity, and well-being of the people of Madhya Pradesh. Alongside saints, he lit a ceremonial lamp and offered floral tributes before the statue of Adi Guru Shankaracharya.