Mysore-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj, renowned for his craftsmanship in creating the idol of Lord Ram, expressed his gratitude for the recognition bestowed upon him by acclaimed sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik. Yogiraj conveyed that the acknowledgment of his work holds profound significance for him, emphasizing that such validation serves as a powerful catalyst, igniting his passion and propelling him forward in his artistic endeavors.
In a message shared on X (formerly Twitter), Arun Yogiraj articulated, "The esteemed acknowledgment from a globally acclaimed sand artist holds immense value in my artistic journey. It serves as a beacon of encouragement, instilling within me a renewed vigor to delve deeper into the realms of my artistry."
Sudarsan Pattnaik, extending his felicitations to Yogiraj for his exceptional creation of Lord Ram's idol, described the work as deeply moving. "Your rendition of Bhagwan Ram Lalla is not only a testament to your skill but also resonates profoundly with me as an artist," Pattnaik expressed on X (formerly known as Twitter), adding heartfelt wishes for Yogiraj's continuous blessings from Lord Ram.
Arun Yogiraj's rise to prominence followed the unveiling of the infant Lord Ram's idol during the 'Pran-Pratishtha' ceremony led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ayodhya on January 22nd.
Reflecting on the meticulous process of crafting the idol, Arun Yogiraj revealed his deliberate isolation from the external world to immerse himself entirely in his craft. He highlighted the inherent challenges of capturing the innocence of a child in his portrayal of infant Lord Ram, a task that demanded significant time investment and interaction with children.
"To encapsulate the innocence of the child deity, I intentionally distanced myself from external distractions, dedicating extensive periods to commune with both the medium of stone and the youthful energy of children," Yogiraj elaborated, underscoring the discipline and dedication integral to his artistic practice.
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