Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently participated in a significant event where he virtually laid the foundation stone for a monumental 108-feet tall statue of Lord Rama in Mantralayam, Andhra Pradesh. This statue is set to become the tallest of its kind in the country and is expected to carry immense symbolic and cultural significance.
Monumental Tribute: Amit Shah Unveils Foundation for 108-Feet Lord Rama Statue
The statue will be located in the picturesque village of Mantralayam, situated on the banks of the revered Tungabhadra river. Its construction is envisioned to serve as an enduring emblem of ‘sanatan dharma’ (eternal duty or righteousness) for generations to come, embodying the timeless principles and values of Hinduism.
The project holds even more significance as it comes amidst the near-completion of the grand Ram Temple construction in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, further solidifying the religious and cultural importance of Lord Rama in the hearts of millions of devotees across the nation.
With an estimated cost exceeding Rs 500 crore, the ambitious statue project is an endeavor to celebrate and honor Lord Rama’s divine legacy and to strengthen the Vaishnava tradition, not only within India but also globally. The Vaishnava tradition encompasses various sects of Hinduism that worship Lord Vishnu as the Supreme Being, with Lord Rama being considered one of his incarnations.
The statue’s location in Mantralayam holds historical significance as it is believed to be the birthplace of the illustrious Vijayanagara empire, an influential kingdom that played a significant role in reclaiming and preserving the cultural and spiritual heritage of Southern India. The empire valiantly fought against invaders, upholding the ideals of “Swadesh and Swadharma” (national duty and individual duty) and leaving behind a rich legacy of art, architecture, and literature.
The ambitious project will cover an area of 10 acres, creating a serene and awe-inspiring ambiance to pay homage to Lord Rama. The construction is expected to be completed within a span of two and a half years, reflecting the dedication and commitment to bringing this colossal tribute to fruition.
Amidst Ayodhya’s Grand Ram Temple: Reinforcing Lord Rama’s Importance
During the foundation-laying ceremony, Home Minister Amit Shah also emphasized various social initiatives under the Mantralayam Das Sahitya Prakalp. These initiatives encompass diverse areas, including providing housing for the underprivileged, organizing food donation programs (Anna Daanam), promoting organ donation (Pran Daanam), supporting education through donations (Vidya Daanam), ensuring access to clean drinking water, and advocating for cow protection.
Moreover, Amit Shah paid his heartfelt respects to prominent spiritual figures, including the Mathadhish (spiritual head) of the Math, Saint Madhvacharya ji, and Saint Raghavendra Swami ji. This gesture of acknowledgment reflects the reverence for the rich Vaishnava tradition of the Southern region of India, encompassing the teachings and contributions of revered saints.
The construction of the 108-feet Ram statue in Andhra Pradesh stands as a testament to India’s cultural heritage and its unwavering commitment to preserving and celebrating its deep-rooted spiritual beliefs and traditions. The statue’s grandeur and symbolism are set to resonate with devotees and visitors, acting as a beacon of devotion and spirituality for generations to come.
