In the heart of the enchanting city of Nathdwara, nestled within the historic district of Rajasthan, India, stands a towering testament to faith and devotion—The Statue of Belief, also known as Vishwas Swaroopam.
This majestic statue, representing the revered Hindu deity Lord Shiva, is a marvel of craftsmanship and devotion. Crafted by the skilled hands of sculptor Naresh Kumawat, this colossal structure was unveiled to the world on a momentous day, the 29th of October, 2022. It now proudly holds the distinction of being the tallest statue of Lord Shiva worldwide.
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A Divine Description
The Statue of Belief portrays Lord Shiva seated in a meditative posture, with his legs crossed and a trishula (trident) held gracefully in his left hand. His serene facial expression conveys detachment and deep meditation. What sets this monumental statue apart is its unique copper shade, which adds a divine aura to its presence.
Standing tall at a remarkable height of 369 feet (112 meters), the statue rests upon a sturdy pedestal that soars 110 feet (34 meters) above the ground. Such grandeur ensures that the Statue of Belief can be admired from as far as 20 kilometers (12 miles) away, making it a beacon of spirituality in the region.
The Journey of Creation
The journey to bring this divine masterpiece to life was a labor of love and dedication. The concept of the Shiva statue was conceived in 2011, and the construction process commenced in 2016, culminating in its completion in 2020. This monumental endeavor was led by Indian businessman Madan Paliwal and undertaken by Shapoorji Pallonji.
A World of Wonders Inside
Stepping inside this colossal statue, visitors are greeted with an exhibition hall that showcases the rich mythology and significance of Lord Shiva. Elevators at heights of 20 feet (6.1 meters), 110 feet (34 meters), and 270 feet (82 meters) provide access to public viewing galleries, allowing pilgrims and tourists to admire the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
The interior also houses a magnificent 25-foot (7.6-meter) tall statue of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s faithful bull, along with a 37-foot (11-meter) long representation. The sprawling 16-acre grounds surrounding the statue offer a multitude of amenities, including a parking facility, three herbal gardens, a food court, a laser fountain, and an area for handicraft shops, viewing platforms, musical fountains, souvenir shops, and a serene pond. Additionally, a mini-train on-site allows for convenient local sightseeing.
Construction Marvel
The construction of the Statue of Belief is an architectural marvel. It features an inner core of reinforced cement concrete walls encased by a structural steel framework, all enveloped by a meticulously molded ultra-high-performance concrete exterior.
To protect this divine symbol from the elements, the surface was coated with liquified zinc and then adorned with a majestic copper finish.
The Statue of Belief, Vishwas Swaroopam, stands as an embodiment of unwavering faith, artistic prowess, and sheer human determination. It not only honors the rich spiritual heritage of India but also serves as a beacon of inspiration and devotion for people from all walks of life.
As visitors and pilgrims gather in awe before this monumental masterpiece, they are reminded that faith, like the Statue of Belief itself, stands tall and unwavering in the face of time.
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