The Shiva Statue at Nathdwara, Rajasthan, officially known as the “Statue of Belief” or “Vishwas Swaroopam,” is a monumental tribute to Lord Shiva and a significant landmark in India’s spiritual landscape. Towering over the town of Nathdwara, near Udaipur, it has become a major draw for pilgrims and tourists alike.
An Architectural Marvel of Faith
Standing at a colossal height of 369 feet (112 meters), the Statue of Belief is the tallest statue of Lord Shiva in the world. Its sheer scale is so immense that it is visible from as far as 20 kilometers away. The statue is situated on a hillock known as Ganesh Tekri, covering an area of 51 bighas. The project was the brainchild of businessman Madan Paliwal, Chairman of the Miraj Group, with the goal of not only creating a symbol of devotion but also of putting Nathdwara on the global tourist map.
The construction of this awe-inspiring structure was a decade-long endeavor, with the foundation stone laid in 2012. The project was conceived by the Sant Kripa Sanatan Sansthan, and the construction was carried out by Shapoorji Pallonji Group. The design was developed by the renowned studio Maturam Art, and the structural design was handled by Skeleton Consultants. The statue was officially inaugurated on October 29, 2022.
Engineering and Design
The statue’s design is a marvel of modern engineering, built to withstand the elements and stand for centuries. It is a three-layered structure:
- The innermost layer consists of four reinforced cement concrete (RCC) core walls.
- The second layer is a structural steel framework.
- The third and outermost layer is a concrete shell made of ultra-high-performance concrete, which gives the statue its detailed and expressive form.
The surface of the statue is coated with zinc and finished with copper, which not only gives it a distinctive copper hue but also protects it and extends its life to an estimated 250 years. The structure is built to withstand wind speeds of up to 250 kmph and can resist earthquakes of Zone IV intensity, despite Nathdwara being in a less seismically active Zone II.
Lord Shiva is depicted in a meditative, cross-legged, seated posture, holding a trishula (trident) in his left hand. The serene and detached expression on his face conveys a sense of divine tranquility and power.
Inside the Statue and Visitor Experience
The Statue of Belief is not just an external monument; it offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors. The hollow space inside the statue has multiple levels, accessible via four elevators and stairs. These levels include public viewing galleries, which provide breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Two main viewing galleries are located at 270 feet and 280 feet, with another gallery at 110 feet.
The complex surrounding the statue is a destination in itself. It features:
- A 25-foot-tall statue of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s celestial bull and vehicle, reverently facing the main statue.
- A projection mapping and sound show that illuminates the statue every evening, telling stories and adding to the mystical ambiance.
- A glass bridge, which offers a thrilling and unforgettable walk with a transparent floor.
- Adventure activities like bungee jumping and go-karting.
- An amphitheater, herbal gardens, a food court, handicraft shops, and an amusement park.
The site is also equipped with two large water tanks above the statue’s head, one for a ceremonial “Jalabhishek” and the other for emergency purposes. A water jet at the top represents the holy Ganga river flowing from Shiva’s matted hair.
The Statue of Belief, or Vishwas Swaroopam, has cemented Nathdwara’s position as a significant spiritual and cultural hub. It stands as a powerful symbol of devotion and a testament to modern architectural and engineering prowess, attracting people from all walks of life to witness its majestic grandeur.