19-Year-Old Runs 8,000 Km to Visit 12 Jyotirlingas After Mother Recovers

When his mother fell seriously ill, 19-year-old Monu Meturbala from Bihar turned to Lord Shiva with a heartfelt prayer. He wished for just one thing: his mother’s recovery. In return, he made a promise that would take him thousands of kilometres across the country — he would run to all 12 Jyotirlingas if she got better.When her health began to improve, Monu set out to honour his vow. What began as a deeply personal prayer has since become an extraordinary journey of faith, endurance and love for his mother.From a Prayer to a Nationwide Running JourneyHailing from Araria district in Bihar, Monu began his journey on March 15, 2026. According to reports, he has covered approximately 8,000 kilometres and visited five of the 12 Jyotirlingas so far.Rather than travelling by vehicle, the teenager has chosen to run long distances to reach the sacred shrines. He reportedly covers nearly 50 kilometres a day, pushing his physical limits while remaining committed to the promise he made during a difficult time in his family.His first stop was Baba Baidyanath Dham in Jharkhand, a revered Shiva temple associated with healing and devotion. Since then, his pilgrimage has taken him to other sacred sites, including shrines in Maharashtra. Every stretch of road brings him closer to another Jyotirlinga and another step towards fulfilling his vow.Sharing His Journey With the WorldMonu is documenting his pilgrimage on Instagram through his account, @monu_betaurabala, sharing glimpses of his travels and the temples he visits. His story has attracted considerable attention on social media and in the media.One of the videos shared online reportedly shows a Maharashtra MLA joining him during his journey, adding another memorable moment to his pilgrimage.Many have drawn comparisons between Monu and Shravan Kumar, the revered figure in Indian tradition remembered for his devotion to his parents. For those following his journey, his determination reflects the powerful bond between a mother and her child.A Promise That Goes Beyond the DistanceThe 12 Jyotirlingas are among the most sacred pilgrimage destinations dedicated to Lord Shiva in Hinduism. Spread across different parts of India, the shrines he aims to visit are Somnath in Gujarat, Mallikarjuna in Andhra Pradesh, Mahakaleshwar and Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh, Kedarnath in Uttarakhand, Bhimashankar and Trimbakeshwar in Maharashtra, Kashi Vishwanath in Uttar Pradesh, Baidyanath in Jharkhand, Nageshwar in Gujarat, Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu, and Grishneshwar in Maharashtra.Reaching all 12 on foot through running is a demanding undertaking, requiring stamina, planning and perseverance. The journey also brings challenges such as changing weather, road conditions and the need for adequate rest. As Monu continues towards the remaining shrines, his goal remains unchanged: to fulfil the promise he made when his mother needed hope.For many, love is expressed through small acts of care and everyday sacrifices. Monu has chosen an extraordinary way to express his love for his mother. His journey is not simply about covering thousands of kilometres or reaching sacred temples. It is about a prayer answered, a promise remembered and a son's determination to honour his mother.