[HPI adds: A 112-foot iconic statue of Adiyogi Lord Shiva was unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Isha Foundation in Coimbatore on the occasion of Maha Sivaratri.]
INDIA, February 24, 2017 (Press Information Bureau): “My loving greetings to all. It is my honor to be here, in this august gathering. That too, on the auspicious occasion of Maha-Shivratri. There are many festivals, but this one is pre-fixed with ‘Maha.’ Indeed, there are many Devs, but only one Maha-Dev. There are many Mantras, but the Mantra which is identified with Lord Shiva, is called Maha-Mrityunjayi Mantra. Such is the glory of Lord Shiva.
“Maha-Shivratri symbolizes a union of divinity with a purpose, of overcoming darkness and injustice. It inspires us to be courageous and fight for good. It marks the shift of seasons, from the cold to the lively spring and brightness. Maha-Shivratri celebrations go on for the entire night. This symbolizes a spirit of vigilance- that we have to protect nature and mould our activities in sync with our ecological surroundings.
“Standing here before this 112-feet face of Adiyogi and the Yogeshwar Linga, we are experiencing a colossal presence enveloping everyone in this space. In the times to come, the place where we have gathered is going to be a source of inspiration for all, a place to immerse one’s self and discover truth. It will remind us of the inclusive spirit of Lord Shiva. Today, Yoga has come a long way.”