In a remarkable display of devotion and craftsmanship, Chennai-based jewellers have crafted the epic Sri Ramcharit Manas in gold, slated to be placed at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir on Sri Ram Navami day, April 17. This exquisite creation, weighing a total of 147 kilogrammes, comprises 522 gold-plated pages, meticulously inscribed with the timeless chronicles of Lord Rama.
The majestic poem ‘Sri Ramcharit Manas’, penned by the revered sage Goswami Tulsidas, is a masterpiece of vernacular literature and stands as an iconic symbol of devotion in Hindu spiritual literature. Each page of the Ramcharit Manas, meticulously crafted with a thickness of 1 mm, embodies intricate attention to detail and craftsmanship.
Speaking about the creation process, Amarendran Vummidi, Managing Partner of Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers, explained, “Each page, meticulously crafted with a thickness of 1 mm, symbolises the intricate attention to detail that defines the craftsmanship.” He elaborated on the journey involved in creating this opulent masterpiece, which included precise CorelDraw 2D drawings, sampling the pages, and etching the text onto the surface of the gold sheet.
Etching the text on both sides of the gold sheet added an extra layer of complexity to the process, demanding perfect alignment and coordination to maintain coherence and legibility from every angle. The result is a stunning portrayal of devotion and craftsmanship, encapsulating the essence of the timeless epic.
Chennai-based jewellers have employed cutting-edge printing technology to create an exquisite rendition of the sacred epic Sri Ramachandran Manas in gold. Utilising Ultraviolet (UV) printing, the makers have reproduced intricate imagery onto the surface of the gold metal sheet, enhancing the depiction of key scenes such as Ramapattabhishekam and Hanumanji from the Sundar Kand chapter.
A remarkable aspect of this creation lies in the delicate balance of two-tone metals, seamlessly blending gold and silver hues to depict scenes like RamCharan with Sita Charan and the Ayodhya Temple. This meticulous artistry and technical expertise ensure that the gold and silver tones complement each other flawlessly, enhancing the overall elegance and sophistication of the masterpiece.
Additionally, the stand designed to hold the book in the Ayodhya Ram temple was crafted with both technicality and practicality in mind, capable of supporting the weight of the 147kg tome. The entire process, from conception to delivery, spanned approximately 8 months, reflecting the dedication and precision required to create such an epic masterpiece.
As a treasure trove of culture and heritage, the gilded tome transcends mere literature to become a symbol of devotion, embodying the eternal spirit of Bhagwan Ram for generations to come. As the golden pages illuminate the sacred verses, seekers of truth are invited to immerse themselves in the profound teachings and timeless truths depicted within.
Divided into six ‘Kandas’ or chapters, namely Bala Kanda, Ayodhya Kanda, Aranya Kanda, Kishkindha Kanda, Sundara Kanda and the Uttara Kanda, each encapsulating a distinct phase of Lord Rama’s divine journey, the Sri Ram Charit Manas serves as a profound reservoir of moral teachings, spiritual insights, and timeless wisdom.
This extraordinary creation exudes an unparalleled sense of pride for VBJ, symbolising their unwavering dedication to preserving cultural heritage and spiritual traditions. More than just a feat of craftsmanship, it represents a deep-rooted commitment to promoting artistic excellence and honouring spiritual values.
This isn’t the first time VBJ has showcased its mastery in crafting cultural treasures. Last year, they crafted a replica of Sengol in Gold, displayed before the installation of the original in the new Parliament House.
