In the heart of Ayodhya, amidst the grand construction of the Ram Mandir, lies a story etched in stone – the story of Arun Yogiraj, the man who breathed life into the revered idol of Ram Lalla. Yogiraj’s name is now synonymous with this monumental task, but his journey to sculpting the divine is blessed with dedication, heritage, and a profound connection to his craft.
Born in Mysuru, Karnataka, Arun Yogiraj hails from a family of renowned sculptors, carrying the artistic lineage in his very blood. His grandfather, Shivalingaiah, was a celebrated figure in South Indian sculpture, and his father, Yogindra Nath, followed suit, carving a niche for himself with his exquisite creations. It was under their watchful eyes and guiding hands that Arun honed his skills, learning the nuances of stonework and breathing life into inanimate forms.
Arun Yogiraj’s early works reflect his familial influence, showcasing a deep understanding of traditional South Indian iconography. He sculpted magnificent murtis of deities like Vishnu, Krishna, and Ganesha, his chisels dancing with a practiced rhythm on the stone canvas. His reputation as a skilled and meticulous artist soon spread beyond Karnataka, earning him commissions for prestigious projects across India.
However, in 2020, destiny presented Yogiraj with a challenge unlike any other. He was selected as one of three finalists to sculpt the new idol of Ram Lalla for the upcoming Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. This wasn’t just a commission but a responsibility that carried the weight of centuries of faith and devotion.
Arun Yogiraj poured his heart and soul into this project. He meticulously studied the existing Ram Lalla idol, a modest terracotta figure worshipped for decades, seeking to capture its essence while adding his own artistic interpretation. He sourced a unique black stone known as “Krishna Shila” from Saligrama in Nepal, believed to be imbued with divinity. For months, his workshop resonated with the rhythmic clanging of the chisel against stone, each strike bringing the divine form closer to its realization.
The final idol, a 51-inch masterpiece, depicts Ram Lalla as a young boy, radiating an ethereal calmness and benevolence. His delicate features, adorned with intricate jewelry, reflect a childlike innocence tempered with regal grace. The idol’s serene countenance and poised posture have drawn immense praise from devotees and art critics alike.
On January 22, 2024, the world will witness the ‘pran pratishtha’ or consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla in the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Mandir. This will mark the culmination of his artistic endeavor and a pivotal moment in Indian history. Arun Yogiraj’s creation has now become a symbol of hope, unity, and the enduring power of faith.
Arun Yogiraj’s story is more than just that of a talented sculptor. It’s a testament to the power of familial heritage, unwavering dedication, and the profound connection an artist can forge with their craft. He has chiseled his name in stone and the hearts of millions, etching his legacy as the man who gave form to the divine in Ayodhya.
Here are some interesting facts about Arun Yogiraj and his work:
- He is a recipient of the prestigious Karnataka Lalithakala Academy Award for his contribution to sculpture.
- Besides sculpting idols, Arun Yogiraj is also skilled in carving intricate stone mandapams and architectural elements.
- He strongly advocates preserving traditional art forms and actively mentors aspiring sculptors.
- Beyond the Ram Lalla idol, Arun Yogiraj has also sculpted statues of prominent figures like Adi Shankaracharya and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
For Arun Yogiraj, it wasn’t just about sculpting a statue; it was about breathing life into a symbol of faith, about bridging the gap between the divine and the mortal. And in doing so, he has etched his name not only in the history of Indian art but also in the hearts of millions.
His sculpted legacy will continue to stand tall in Ayodhya, a beacon of faith and reminder of the enduring spirit of Indian art.