Embarking on a journey that transcended the mundane, Arun Yogiraj of Mysore, initially an MBA graduate and executive, discovered his true calling in 2008. Transitioning from office cubicles to sculpting, he became a sought-after artist in India, rising from a family of renowned sculptors.
Yogiraj, now acclaimed for his 'shyam shila' (bluish-black stone) idol of Ram Lalla, holds the distinction of having his creation chosen for the 'garba griha' (sanctum sanctorum) of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. His idol, characterized by divine eyes, has captivated observers.
Having pursued an MBA and worked as an executive, Yogiraj left the corporate world in 2008 to pursue his passion. Describing his current state as "living a dream," he expressed gratitude for the blessings of his ancestors, family, and Lord Ram Lalla.
Despite his MBA background, sculpting was not Yogiraj's initial career choice. Raised in a family of sculptors spanning five generations, including his father Yogiraj, he had inherited a legacy. His grandfather, Basavanna Shilpi, was even patronized by the King of Mysore.
Arun Yogiraj's diverse portfolio includes statues at prominent locations in India, such as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose's statue at India Gate, the 12-foot-tall statue of Adi Shankaracharya in Kedarnath, and Swami Ramakrishna Paramahamsa's statue in Mysuru. Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged Yogiraj's talent in 2022 when presented with a statue of Subhash Chandra Bose.
Approached by the Ram Mandir Temple Trust along with two other sculptors, Yogiraj crafted the Ram Lalla statue based on specific guidelines. Studying facial features, he created a sculpture capturing the essence of a 5-year-old Swaroop with a regal appearance.
Yogiraj's meticulous approach included studying shilpa shastra, human anatomy books, and utilizing the 'shyam shila' stone, known for its endurance. This stone, sourced from a village near Mysuru, is unreactive to acid, heat, and adverse weather conditions.
In contrast to using computer software, Yogiraj employed traditional tools like hammers and chisels, blending tradition with observations. As the Ram Mandir stands tall in Ayodhya, Yogiraj's words resonate: "I feel I am the luckiest person on the earth now." This MBA executive has, by destiny, become the sculptor of the iconic Ram Lalla idol at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir.
