Karnataka sculptor's Ram Lalla chosen for Ayodhya Temple: Minister
New Delhi, January 02: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi recently revealed that the revered Ram Lalla idol, to be enshrined within Ayodhya's grand temple, has been finalised. This meticulously crafted 51-inch idol portraying a five-year-old Ram Lalla was fashioned by the esteemed sculptor Arun Yogiraj from Karnataka. While the official announcement from the overseeing body, the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teertha Kshetra trust, is anticipated, Mr. Joshi's revelation hinted at the intricate bond between Lord Ram and Hanuman.
In a post titled "Hanuman is where Ram is" on X, Minister Joshi emphasised the deep connection between the chosen idol and Karnataka, referred to as "the land of Hanuman." This association stems from the belief that Hanuman's birthplace lies in present-day Karnataka, as per Hindu mythological texts. The minister highlighted this bond, signifying the inseparable relationship between Lord Ram and Hanuman.
"ಎಲ್ಲಿ ರಾಮನೋ ಅಲ್ಲಿ ಹನುಮನು"
ಅಯೋಧ್ಯೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಶ್ರೀರಾಮನ ಪ್ರಾಣ ಪ್ರತಿಷ್ಠಾಪನಾ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ಕೆ ವಿಗ್ರಹ ಆಯ್ಕೆ ಅಂತಿಮಗೊಂಡಿದೆ. ನಮ್ಮ ನಾಡಿನ ಹೆಸರಾಂತ ಶಿಲ್ಪಿ ನಮ್ಮ ಹೆಮ್ಮೆಯ ಶ್ರೀ @yogiraj_arun ಅವರು ಕೆತ್ತಿರುವ ಶ್ರೀರಾಮನ ವಿಗ್ರಹ ಪುಣ್ಯಭೂಮಿ ಅಯೋಧ್ಯೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಪ್ರತಿಷ್ಠಾಪನೆಗೊಳ್ಳಲಿದೆ. ರಾಮ ಹನುಮರ ಅವಿನಾಭಾವ ಸಂಬಂಧಕ್ಕೆ ಇದು… pic.twitter.com/VQdxAbQw3Q — Pralhad Joshi (@JoshiPralhad) January 1, 2024
Former Karnataka Chief Minister, BS Yediyurappa, echoed this sentiment, expressing immense pride as Arun Yogiraj's creation was selected for installation in the Ram Temple. The trust's decision to opt for Yogiraj's idol was made after considering three designs, ultimately culminating in a votive session.
The selection process was guided by an intangible quality—an idol's ability to captivate and evoke a sense of divinity. Trust members explained that the chosen idol exuded an unmistakable impression of Ram Lalla, aligning with the criteria set for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony on January 22, an event slated to be graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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Amidst reports of Arun Yogiraj's idol being chosen, his family expressed elation and fulfillment. Yogiraj's wife, Vijetha Yogiraj, shared their joy, portraying this milestone as a realisation of their aspirations. She illuminated her husband's dedication, depicting his tireless commitment and unwavering precision in every creation, especially one of national significance like the Ram Lalla idol.
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She revealed his steadfast determination, affirming that despite the challenges, Yogiraj was resolute in sculpting an idol where Lord Ram's essence resided. His dedication and conviction in channeling Lord Ram's presence into the idol echoed his unwavering commitment to his craft.
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However, trust members refrained from confirming the selection of Yogiraj's entry, labeling current discussions as speculative until an official statement is made by Secretary Champat Rai. Rai is expected to address the press and formally disclose the chosen idol for the monumental Ayodhya temple.
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(Inputs from agencies)
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