In a monumental tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, the Andhra Pradesh government has unveiled the world’s tallest statue of the social justice icon in Vijayawada. Standing proudly at 206 feet from the ground, the ‘Statue of Social Justice’ has secured a place among the top 50 tallest statues globally, with Sardar Vallabhai Patel’s ‘Statue of Unity’ reigning supreme.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed his pride in the towering Mahashilpam of Ambedkar, describing it as a symbol not only for the state but also for the entire country. Last year, the unveiling of the tallest Ambedkar statue outside India took place in Maryland, USA, known as the ‘Statue of Equality,’ standing at 19 feet and crafted by renowned sculptor Ram Sutar, the creator of Sardar Patel’s statue.
Key features of the ‘Statue of Justice’:
- Soaring to a height of 125 feet, the Ambedkar statue stands atop an 81-feet pedestal, making it a towering symbol of social justice.
- The monumental project incurred a cost of ₹404.35 crore and occupies a sprawling 18.81 acres of land within a lush green park.
- The entire construction, from sourcing raw materials to the intricate design, adhered to a ‘Made in India’ ethos. Approximately 400 tonnes of steel were utilized in the creation of the ‘Statue of Justice.’
- The vicinity surrounding the statue, including Swaraj Maidan, underwent redevelopment. Notable additions include water bodies in the forecourt, a three-sided peripheral water body for the pedestal, and a musical water fountain.
- The site boasts LED screens showcasing Ambedkar’s life, a convention center with a seating capacity of 2,000, an expansive 8,000 sq ft food court, and a dedicated children’s playing area.
The ‘Statue of Social Justice’ serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, symbolizing his unwavering commitment to social equality and justice. The grand unveiling marks a significant milestone in paying homage to the visionary leader who played a pivotal role in shaping the democratic foundation of the nation.
Sources By Agencies
