Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Leading Industrialist Gautam Adani Offer Prayers with Family

Site of Adi Shankaracharya-Kumarila Bhatta Dialogue, Temple Exemplifies Dravidian Architecture

Prayagraj : Shri Adi Shankar Viman Mandapam, situated on the sacred land of Prayagraj, has become a historic focal point during the Maha Kumbh. The temple’s spiritual aura draws devotees irresistibly. Previously, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the temple to offer prayers, and on Tuesday, renowned industrialist Gautam Adani, along with his family, also paid a visit. His presence has rekindled national interest in this architectural and spiritual marvel.

Symbol of Spiritual Devotion

Rakesh Shukla, known as “Prayagputra,” described the temple as a key center of Indian philosophy and cultural consciousness within the Kumbh area. Gautam Adani, accompanied by 51 Vedic priests under the guidance of Swami Kashi Mani Ji, received a grand welcome with Vedic chants at the temple’s main entrance. He engaged in heartfelt conversations with devotees at the temple’s “Aarti Sangrah Pagoda,” constructed by Geeta Press, showcasing his deep spiritual devotion and commitment to societal welfare.

Temple Construction Initiated by Shankaracharya Swami Jayendra Saraswati

The construction of Shri Adi Shankar Viman Mandapam was inspired by Kanchikamkoti’s 69th Peethadheeshwar Shankaracharya Swami Jayendra Saraswati to fulfill the wishes of his guru, Chandrashekharendra Saraswati. Guru Chandrashekharendra had envisioned this temple during his Chaturmas in Prayag in 1934, believing it to be the historic site of a dialogue between Adi Shankaracharya and Kumarila Bhatta.

A 17-Year Journey of Construction

The foundation stone for the temple was laid in 1969 by then Uttar Pradesh Governor B. Gopal Reddy. Engineers B. Somo Sundaram and C.S. Ramachandra designed its blueprint, with assistance from the Uttar Pradesh State Bridge Corporation. The temple, supported by 16 pillars, was completed under the supervision of Assistant Engineer Krishna Murari Dubey and opened to devotees on March 17, 1986. The materials for the structure, including its idols, were sourced from South India, showcasing exquisite Dravidian architecture.

Temple Highlights

Standing 130 feet tall, the temple houses a statue of Adi Shankaracharya, idols of Goddess Kamakshi, 51 Shakti Peethas, Tirupati Balaji, Sahasra Yoga Lingas, 108 Shiva Lingas, and Lord Ganesha. The temple, open from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, offers panoramic views of the Sangam from its upper levels. Thousands of devotees visit daily during the Maha Kumbh, drawn by its sanctity and splendor.