Ram Lalla Idol by Rajasthan Sculptor, a White Marble Creation, Faces Setback

In the grand temple at Ayodhya, the black stone idol of Ram Lalla, skillfully carved by Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj, has found its place in the sanctum sanctorum. However, two other idols, including one crafted from white marble by Rajasthan’s Satyanarayan Pandey, will be housed in different sections of the Ram Temple,

The white marble idol, currently in the possession of the trust, showcases Ram Lalla holding a golden bow and arrow. Behind the deity, an arch-like structure features smaller sculptures depicting various incarnations of Lord Vishnu. The craftsmanship is notable, with intricate details such as jewelry and clothes chiseled out of marble. Although this idol did not secure a spot in the temple’s central sanctum (‘garbha griha’), it will be displayed elsewhere within the Ram Temple. The dimensions of the idol adhere to the specifications set by the trust overseeing the temple’s construction.

In contrast, the 51-inch black granite idol that now graces the temple’s sanctum sanctorum has a distinct origin. Carved from a rock that is an astounding 2.5 billion years old, the National Institute of Rock Mechanics’ HS Venkatesh affirmed its durability and resistance to climatic variations. This particular rock was sourced from Karnataka and reportedly excavated in Gujjegowdanapura, Mysuru. During a levelling exercise on agricultural land, the rock’s exceptional quality caught the attention of a local contractor, who then brought it to the temple trust’s notice.

Sculptor Arun Yogiraj, present in Ayodhya for the recent ‘pran pratistha’ ceremony, expressed his joy, calling it the best day of his life. He shared his deep connection with Lord Ram, stating, “I have always felt that Lord Ram has been shielding me and my family from all the bad times, and I strongly believe that it was Him who chose me for the auspicious task. I spent sleepless nights working on the idol with precision, but it was all worth it. I feel I am the luckiest person on Earth, and today is the best day of my life,” as conveyed to PTI.

Author: suman jha