Amid grand celebrations during the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, sculptor Arun Yogiraj, the artistic genius behind the mesmerizing sculpture of infant Lord Ram, has become a focal point of admiration. The captivating eyes and enchanting smile of Ram Lalla have captivated the hearts of onlookers, prompting curiosity about the sculptor’s craftsmanship and the intricate details that breathe life into the idol.
Crafting the Divine Smile: The captivating smile adorning Ram Lalla’s face has become a subject of awe and admiration. Arun Yogiraj’s wife, Vijetha, sheds light on the technical details of the sculpting process. According to her, the magic lies in Yogiraj’s hands. Guided by the temple trust’s criteria, which included a smiling face, divine look, a 5-year-old swaroop, and a prince-like appearance, Yogiraj embarked on the journey of artistic creation.
Vijetha reveals that Yogiraj drew inspiration from observing children’s facial features and expressions, translating his observations into sketches and ultimately crafting a masterpiece. The entire process, she mentions, involved a blend of imagination and meticulous attention to detail.
Proportion and Precision: The facial features, including eyes, nose, chin, lips, and cheeks, were sculpted with precision, adhering to the principles of Shilpa Shastra—the sacred scripture of the sculpting world. Shilpa Shastra, rooted in ancient Indian texts, encompasses a wide range of traditional arts, crafts, and architecture, providing a guiding framework for artists like Yogiraj.
To achieve authenticity, Yogiraj delved into human anatomy books, studying facial and body features. He even visited schools to observe children and toddlers, gaining insights into their smiles and expressions.
Significance of the 51-Inch Idol: Vijetha explains the scientific rationale behind choosing a 51-inch height for the Ram Lalla idol. This precise height ensures that the Sun’s rays fall on Ramlalla’s forehead every year at noon on Ram Navami day, adding a unique and divine touch to the idol. The meticulous consideration of such details adds depth to the spiritual significance of the sculpture.
Choice of Krishnashila Stone: The usage of Krishnashila stone for sculpting the idol is not arbitrary. Vijetha highlights the stone’s unique chemical composition, ensuring it remains unreactive to acid, heat, and harsh weather conditions. Importantly, when performing Abishekam with milk, the stone does not react, allowing devotees to consume it as ‘prasad’ without concerns about health effects. Vijetha emphasizes that this high-quality stone can endure for over 1000 years without a scratch.
Traditional Craftsmanship vs. Technology: While Yogiraj utilized contemporary software for representation, Vijetha clarifies that the sculpting itself was a manual endeavor. The hands, hammer, and chisels of the sculptor brought the vision to life, showcasing the harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship with modern tools.
The unveiling of Ram Lalla’s sculpture at the Ram Mandir stands as a testament to the artistic brilliance of Arun Yogiraj, who considers himself incredibly fortunate to have been chosen for this divine task. As the nation revels in the grandeur of the Ram Mandir, the smile of Ram Lalla continues to radiate joy, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of devotees and art enthusiasts alike.
