Sunday was marked by an auspicious occasion in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool district when Home Minister Amit Shah ceremoniously laid the foundation stone for an awe-inspiring, magnificent 108-foot-tall statue of Lord Shri Ram. The pivotal event took place remotely, with the Home Minister employing the technology of video conferencing to take part in the groundbreaking ceremony.

The grand statue, which is slated to cost an estimated Rs 500 crore, is to be constructed over a sweeping and expansive area of 10 acres. The site chosen for this landmark project holds a considerable historical significance. The Mantralayam village, nestled beside the historic Tungabhadra river, which has been the birthplace of the illustrious Vijayanagar Empire, is the designated location for this majestic statue.

In his heartfelt address during the ceremony, Amit Shah expressed a fervent belief that the colossal statue of Lord Shri Ram would reverberate the profound teachings of Sanatan Dharma across the globe for generations to come. He emphasized the intention of fortifying the Vaishnava tradition not just within the country but also on a global scale.

Amit Shah highlighted the importance of the number 108, a figure of high spiritual significance in Hindu culture. He assured that the sacred number is an essential aspect of the design of the statue.

As per the timeline shared by the Home Minister, the massive project is slated to reach completion in about two and a half years. He took the opportunity to shed light on the spiritual richness of the location selected for the grand statue. Mantralayam village, which is renowned for the sacred temple of Raghavendra Swamy, is an apt setting for this ambitious endeavour.

Speaking about the historical background of the area, Amit Shah noted that the village holds a monumental place in India's history. He stated, “The great Vijayanagar Empire originated on the banks of the Tungabhadra river. It restored Swadesh and Swadharma by driving out the invaders from the entire South.”

Additionally, Amit Shah praised the Mantralayam Das Sahitya Prakalp for its commendable initiatives in the areas of housing, Anna Daanam, Pran Daanam, Vidya Daanam, drinking water and cow protection.

The Home Minister further lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for paving the way for the construction of Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The foundation stone for this project, which had been pending for many years, was laid under his leadership. He conveyed a sense of pride and joy as he spoke about the imminent installation of Ramlala's idol in the Shri Ram temple. According to him, after hundreds of years, Lord Shri Ram will finally find a place of reverence at his rightful abode.

With an undercurrent of excitement and spiritual fervour, this project promises to be a beacon of India's rich cultural heritage and deep-seated religious faith. The 108-foot-tall statue of Lord Shri Ram is not just a representation of a revered deity, but also a testament to the unwavering devotion and spiritual commitment of the people of India.