While we await an official announcement, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has indicated that the idol of Ram Lalla, skillfully crafted by Karnataka sculptor Arun Yogiraj, is likely to find its place in the grand temple at Ayodhya. Arun Yogiraj is among the three sculptors whose 51-inch idols are under consideration for the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Temple.
However, members of the Ram Temple trust have not confirmed the selection of the Karnataka sculptor’s entry. According to a trust member speaking to NDTV, everything is speculative until an official announcement is made by Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra’s secretary, Champat Rai.
Who is Arun Yogiraj?
Arun Yogiraj is a highly sought-after sculptor with a family history deeply rooted in the craft. His father and grandfather were renowned sculptors, passing down a rich legacy.
After completing his MBA, Mr. Yogiraj briefly worked in a private company. However, his passion always leaned towards continuing the artistic tradition that four generations before him had embraced.
Mr. Yogiraj’s dedication to his craft has not gone unnoticed, earning him recognition from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Notably, he crafted the impressive 30-foot statue of Subhash Chandra Bose, prominently displayed behind the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate.
His portfolio extends to include a 12-foot-tall statue of Adi Shankaracharya in Kedarnath, a 21-foot-tall Hanuman statue in Chunchanakatte, Mysore district, and a 15-foot-tall statue of Dr. BR Ambedkar. Arun’s contributions have been widely covered in the media, with even the royal family of Mysore acknowledging his remarkable work.
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Arun Yogiraj Family Reaction
Vijetha, Arun Yogiraj’s wife, expressed immense joy and a sense of fulfillment when speaking to NDTV. She described the achievement as a dream come true for their family.
Vijetha highlighted her husband’s dedication, emphasizing that Arun Yogiraj dedicates 10 hours daily to his craft and works tirelessly, especially on projects of national significance. She praised his precision, stating that he creates a masterpiece with every carving, leaving no room for errors.
During a conversation with his wife, Arun Yogiraj shared the challenges of the task ahead. Despite acknowledging its difficulty, he committed to carving until he found Lord Ram in the idol, expressing confidence that Lord Ram would guide him.
On the other hand, Saraswathi, Arun Yogiraj’s mother, expressed extreme happiness at the prospect of her son’s work being showcased to the entire world.
Ram Lalla Idol
On January 1, Minister Pralhad Joshi shared on X (previously known as Twitter) that the choice for the idol to be used in the Prana Pratishtapana ceremony for Lord Rama in Ayodhya has been confirmed. The minister expressed, in Kannada, that the renowned sculptor, Mr. Arun Yogiraj, from our country, has crafted the idol of Lord Rama, which will soon be placed in Ayodhya.
This event highlights the inseparable connection between Rama and Hanuman. Undoubtedly, it marks a significant contribution to Ramlallani from Karnataka, the homeland of Hanuman.
The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teertha Kshetra trust, responsible for building the temple, is expected to announce the chosen idol on January 5. Three idols were under consideration, and when asked about the selection criteria, trust member Bimlendra Mohan Pratap Mishra explained to ANI that the chosen idol should “speak to you and leave you mesmerized.”
Champat Rai added in his statement to ANI that the selected idol for Pran Pratishtha would be the one with the most divine appearance, bearing a distinct impression of Ram Lalla.
Arun Yogiraj FAQs
Q.1. Who is Arun Yogiraj?
Ans. Arun Yogiraj is a highly skilled sculptor from Karnataka with a family history deeply rooted in the craft. His father and grandfather were renowned sculptors, and Arun has continued their legacy. He gained recognition for his work on various statues, including the 30-foot statue of Subhash Chandra Bose behind India Gate.
Q.2. What are Arun Yogiraj’s notable works?
Ans. Arun Yogiraj’s portfolio includes the 30-foot statue of Subhash Chandra Bose, a 12-foot-tall statue of Adi Shankaracharya in Kedarnath, a 21-foot-tall Hanuman statue in Chunchanakatte, Mysore district, and a 15-foot-tall statue of Dr. BR Ambedkar.
Q.3. How did Arun Yogiraj get recognized by PM Modi?
Ans. Arun Yogiraj’s dedication to his craft earned him recognition from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, particularly for his work on the 30-foot statue of Subhash Chandra Bose.
Q.4. What is the significance of Arun Yogiraj’s contribution to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya?
Ans. Arun Yogiraj is one of the three sculptors whose idols are under consideration for the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. His craftsmanship and dedication have made him a strong candidate for this prestigious project.
Q.5. When will the chosen idol for the Ram Temple be officially announced?
Ans. The official announcement of the chosen idol for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is expected to be made by Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra’s secretary, Champat Rai, on January 5.
