Delhi to get 81-ft Lord Ram statue in Mangolpuri; Rs 55 crore project cleared

NEW DELHI: A towering statue of Lord Ram, matching the Jhandewalan Hanuman statue, is going to be installed in northwest Delhi's Mangolpur Kalan Hanuman Mandir Park. Delhi Village Development Board on Friday sanctioned Rs 55 crore for the project in Mangolpuri, including Rs 50 crore for the 81-foot-high statue.Board chairperson Raj Kumar Chauhan told TOI, "There was a demand for a large Ram statue from people in the area and elsewhere in Delhi. I received multiple requests and accordingly the project was sanctioned." The project aims to redevelop the park near the upcoming Mangolpur Kalan metro station into a cultural landmark, with the statue as its centrepiece. The 81ft statue will be mounted on a base of about 10ft, topped with an ornamental canopy of over 6ft, taking the overall height close to 100ft.

The structure will be built on a reinforced RCC foundation with a structural steel framework and covered with bronze panels to ensure durability and visual appeal.

A Hanuman temple already exists inside the park.

Chauhan said the location was chosen to create a striking skyline view for people. "Both the metro line and the statue will be visible to people from a single spot, offering a visual similar to the Hanuman statue near Jhandewalan," he added.

According to the proposal, Lord Ram, in a blessing gesture, will be depicted standing on a lotus pedestal, holding the bow resting on the ground. It will incorporate traditional sculptural elements inspired by classical depictions of Ram, including a halo behind the head.The department estimates that construction will take around 18 months from the date of the award of work around March. Chauhan said officials were directed to expedite the tendering process, which would "invite agencies with prior experience in similar work".The plan also includes comprehensive redevelopment of the park, with landscaping, decorative lighting, improved pathways, seating areas and visitor facilities, to create a cultural and spiritual destination as well as a community recreation space. "The park will be landscaped and illuminated to ensure convenience and comfort for visitors," Chauhan said.He added that the initiative would strengthen Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for rural development. "Lord Ram symbolises courage, righteousness, sacrifice and ideal leadership." The project is among 574 rural development works cleared by the board during Friday's meeting, covering roads, parks, drains and community spaces in villages and rural pockets in the city.