National Desk: Arun Yogiraj, a fifth-generation sculptor from Karnataka, has etched his name into history as the artist behind the much-anticipated Ram Lalla idol at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir. After months of anticipation, the idol was unveiled on January 22nd, leaving an awestruck world captivated by its delicate beauty and divine presence.
Yogiraj, overwhelmed with emotion, declared himself the “luckiest person on earth,” attributing his accomplishment to the blessings of his ancestors and Lord Ram himself. Describing the experience as a dream come true, he spoke of feeling transported to another world.
The journey to this historic moment began with rigorous selection process. Chosen from among three finalists, Yogiraj’s intricate carving of a five-year-old Ram Lalla standing on a lotus, crafted from black stone, stood out with its serene grace and childlike innocence.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the momentous ‘pran pratishtha’ ceremony, marking the official installation of the idol within the newly built temple. Yogiraj’s dedication to the project was evident in his unwavering focus, even isolating himself from his family for 15 days to ensure the idol’s perfection.
His talent, however, is not new to the world. Hailing from a family with a 5-generation legacy of sculpting, Yogiraj has already created impressive monuments like the 30-feet Subhash Chandra Bose statue at India Gate and the 12-feet Adi Shankaracharya statue in Kedarnath. His skills have earned him praise from prominent figures like Prime Minister Modi and recognition from organizations and even the Mysore royal family.
But the Ram Lalla idol stands as a testament to Yogiraj’s exceptional artistry and unwavering devotion. It has not only fulfilled a personal dream but also brought immense joy and spiritual fulfillment to millions of devotees across the world. As this iconic artwork continues to inspire and resonate with generations to come, Arun Yogiraj’s name will forever be etched alongside the legend of Ram Lalla in the grand story of Ayodhya.
