In the recently inaugurated Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, a meticulously crafted 51-inch idol of Ram Lalla, fashioned by Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj using Krishna Shile, now graces the 'garbha griha' (sanctum sanctorum) of the temple.
Alongside this primary idol, there are two additional Ram Lalla idols, each sculpted with distinct artistry. One of these idols, created by Satyanarayan Pandey, is fashioned from white marble, and adorned with opulent golden jewelry and clothing. The idol is encircled by an arch depicting various incarnations of Lord Vishnu. This elegant white marble creation is anticipated to find its place on the first floor of the temple.
The third Ram Lalla idol, shrouded in mystery, is yet to be unveiled, adding an air of anticipation to the temple's sacred ambiance.
The central Ram Lalla idol, celebrated as 'Balak Ram,' is a portrayal of Lord Ram as a five-year-old boy, standing gracefully. Crafted by Arun Yogiraj, this remarkable idol is carved from a three billion-year-old rock, the azure-colored Krishna Shile (black schist), sourced from Gujjegowdanapura village in Mysuru. This metamorphic rock, known for its fine-to-medium-grained texture and smooth surface resembling soapstone, provides an ideal medium for sculptors.
The Banarasi fabric-clad idol features a yellow dhoti and a red 'pataka' or 'angavastram.' The 'angavastram' is embellished with pure gold 'zari' and threads, adorned with auspicious Vaishnav symbols like 'shankh,' 'padma,' 'chakra,' and 'mayur.' The intricate ornaments are crafted by Ankur Anand's Lucknow-based Harsahaimal Shiamlal Jewellers, while the garments are meticulously designed by Delhi-based textile artisan Manish Tripathi, who dedicated his efforts to the project from Ayodhya Dham.
