Sculptor Arun Yogiraj: Crafting Epics in Stone
Hailing from a family with a rich sculpting tradition, Arun Yogiraj has become a household name as the murti of Ram Lalla that adorns the grand and magnificent Ram Mandir in Ayodhya was crafted by him.
He learned the art from his father. While he experienced the historic moment of Pran Prathistha of Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir firsthand, his family in Mysuru witnessed the ceremony live on TV.
His artistic prowess extends to Mysore, where a majestic 21-foot-tall Hanuman statue captures the essence of devotion. Additionally, Yogiraj has sculpted a 15-foot-tall statue honouring Dr BR Ambedkar, a pristine white amritashila statue portraying Swami Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, a monolithic six-foot-tall Nandi statue, a six-foot-tall representation of Banashankari Devi, and a regal 4.5-foot-tall white Amrita Shila statue commemorating the King of Mysore, Jayachamarajendra Wodeyar.
Apart from the Ram Lalla murti, Yogiraj’s notable works include the 12-foot-tall statue of Adi Shankaracharya in Kedarnath and the imposing statue of Subhas Chandra Bose, gracing the vicinity of India Gate in Delhi.
In 2021, his 12-foot tall statue of Adi Shankaracharya found its home in the sacred Kedarnath temple, showcasing his talent and devotion to India’s spiritual heritage.
Crafted from black Krishna Shile stone, the Kedarnath statue radiates serenity and wisdom. Yogiraj, a fifth-generation sculptor from Mysuru, poured his artistic lineage and dedication into capturing the essence of the renowned philosopher and theologian. The intricate details of the statue, from the flowing robes to the contemplative expression, reflect the artist’s deep understanding of Shankaracharya’s teachings.
Towering Devotion: 21-Foot Hanuman Statue
This monumental masterpiece is the culmination of years of meticulous planning and execution is evident in the statue’s flawless finish and powerful aura.The 21-foot Hanuman statue has already become a major attraction, drawing devotees from across the region. Pilgrims gather to offer prayers and seek blessings, immersing themselves in the spiritual atmosphere that surrounds the statue. The monument serves as a powerful reminder of Hanuman’s virtues and inspires faith, courage, and unwavering devotion.
15-Foot Ambedkar Statue
A monumental 15-foot statue of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, sculpted by Arun Yogiraj, has become a powerful symbol of equality and justice. Towering over its surroundings, the statue serves as a poignant reminder of Ambedkar’s tireless fight against caste discrimination and his pivotal role in shaping India’s social and political landscape.
Subhash Chandra Bose at the India Gate
The statue of Subhash Chandra Bose, crafted from black granite, depicts Bose with a firm gaze and resolute stance at the India Gate. His right hand rests on a sword, symbolising his unwavering fighting spirit, while his left hand gestures towards the horizon, a testament to his vision for a free India. The intricate details, from the sharp creases of his military uniform to the determined expression on his face, convey a sense of strength and purpose.
Arun Yogiraj’s imposing statue of Subhas Chandra Bose is more than just a work of art; it is a powerful symbol of freedom, courage, and unwavering determination. It stands as a testament to the sculptor’s mastery and serves as a constant reminder of the legacy of a man who dared to dream of a free India and fought tirelessly to make it a reality
Each creation reflects Yogiraj’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage and capturing the spirit of revered personalities. As his sculptures grace prominent landmarks, Arun Yogiraj continues to leave an indelible mark on the canvas of India’s rich artistic tapestry.
Speaking about his commitment, Yogiraj’s wife, Vijeta, spoke about the dedication and sacrifices her husband made during the creation of the Ram Lalla murti.
“He had many sleepless nights, fully focused on creating the idol. There were days when we hardly spoke, and he hardly had time for the family. But now, all of that has been compensated by this great news,” she shared.
A graduate with an MBA from the University of Mysore, Yogiraj initially worked in the HR Department of a private company for six months. However, following his inner calling, he returned to Mysuru to continue the family tradition of sculpting.
The murti adorning the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Temple is crafted from a three-billion-year-old rock known as “Krishna Shile,” or black schist. Excavated from Gujjegowdanapura in H.D. Kote Taluk, the smooth surface texture of the rock makes it an ideal choice for sculptors, according to a UGC-emeritus professor at the Department of Earth Sciences, University of Mysore.
Ramadas, the landowner where the stone was found, has generously announced the donation of four ‘guntas’ of his land for the construction of the Ram temple. Meanwhile, special rituals for the temple’s foundation laying were performed at the spot where the black stone for the Ayodhya murti was discovered. Attended by Chamundeshwari MLA GT Deve Gowda and community leaders, the rituals took place at 6:30 am.
Looking ahead, Yogiraj has been requested to create an additional murti for the temple once it is built. The temple trust confirmed that out of the three murti crafted by Yogiraj, Ganesh Bhatt, and Satyanarayan Pandey, one will be placed in the sanctum sanctorum, while the other two will find a place in different sections of the Ram Mandir. The intricate artistry and devotion displayed by Arun Yogiraj have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the grandeur of Ayodhya’s Ram Temple.
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